Dillard M. Parker Sr.

In God's Garden there are some trees that stand taller, more erect, more noticeable and even stronger than others around them. Dillard M. Parker, Sr. was one of those trees. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? John 11:26 KJV

Dilliard M. Parker, Sr. 97 of Albany, NY, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 10, 2023 with his family by his side. Dilliard was born August 28, 1925, in High Point North Carolina to the late Lucious Parker and Marie Blackman Parker. He graduated from High Point High School. Soon after that he enlisted in the United States Airforce for 3 years, then reenlisted into United States Army for an additional year and half. Dillard fought in WWII, where he received a good conduct medal. After the war, Dillard moved to Philadelphia, PA for a short time, before moving to Albany, NY. On November 17, 1956 he married the love of his life, the late Nellie V. Bennekin. They had 9 children. Dillard worked various jobs with NY Penn/Conrail Railroad, which is now named Amtrak.

After years of hard work, dedication and determination he retired from the railroad upon turning the age of 65. Additionally, during his employment years, he was employed by several upscale restaurants in the Albany area as a part-time chef. Dilliard enjoyed spending time with his family the most. He never missed a Friday night fight or football game with his kids, when he could be available. On most Fridays he would cook fish, macaroni and cheese and cabbage. Dinner-time was always a family event with everyone sitting at the table, sharing their day. He was an avid bowler and received numerous awards. He was a green thumb gardener who sold his vegetables at several area Farmer's Markets. He also enjoyed his casinos and the racetracks as well. Dillard was a strong man, a hard-working man, a courageous man and one who had to rise above many adversities. God was looking over him all of his life. He was a Son, a Husband, a Father, a Grand Father, Great Grand Father, a Great-Great Grand Father, Brother, Uncle, Great Uncle and a good friend to all. Dillard loved life and lived his to the fullest.

He is predeceased by his parents, Lucious and Marie Blackman Parker, his loving wife Nellie Virgina Parker, 4 sisters Mary Phillips (George), Lucille Williams (Frank), Alene Young-Larry (James), Virginia Norwood, and his daughters Bessie M. Parker and Lucille E. Parker. Dillard leaves to cherish his memories 4 daughters: Patricia K. Hodges (Gregory), Denise M. Walker (Rachid), Loreene Parker, Ruth V. (Parker) Verbal, 3 sons: Dillard M. Parker, Jr., Walter Parker, Andre' P. Parker, 14 grandchildren: Elycia S. Chew (Derrick), Keshema M. Quickley, Alonzo E. Verbal, Jr., Julian A. Verbal, LaQuinn Robinson, Shikel D. Robinson, Dilliard M. Parker, III, Nicole M. Parker, Matthew W. Parker, Kristle Walker, Brittany Walker, Leesa Walker, Jasmin T. Saffold (Jazzy), Candace A. Board (Mookie), 15 Great grandchildren: Ellyce D. Chew, Dylan A. Chew, Ethan A. Chew, Keshadia J. Carter, Khalil J. Carter, Kaleb J. Cleveland, Cameron K. Verbal, Malachi A. Verbal, Charlotte M. Parker, Ayleen Codrington, Amare' Walker, Andrew Robinson, Amir C Saffold, London L. Saffold, Kyia J. Irving. 2 Great-great grandchildren: August R. Mott, Kayson J.S. Silver-Carter, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Calling hours will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Albany, New York on Friday August 18, 2023 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, with a service to immediately follow. Burial will take place following the service at Graceland Cemetery.

To share a memory of Dillard or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.





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