Barbara Hanna Parker

Barbara Hanna Parker, 80, was born March 10, 1946, in Graham, Texas, to Zeke Waldron Hanna and Juanita Morris Hanna. She peacefully completed her earthly journey on October 6, 2026.

Barbara had a gift for making people feel loved. With her beautiful smile, contagious laugh, creative spirit, and servant's heart, she brought warmth and joy to those around her. She was strong-willed, full of life, and always beautifully put together—right down to her jewelry and the sparkle on her nails. To her family, she was Mama and Nana, the titles she treasured most.

Barbara married the love of her life, Kenneth Duayne “Ken” Parker, on April 16, 1971, after meeting on a blind date while both worked at General Dynamics. Throughout their 55 years of marriage, they were true partners in life, business, family, and faith. They owned businesses together, and when Ken transitioned into education, Barbara continued supporting him, working as an educational aide, creating special celebrations for his staff, and making every place they called home a little brighter.

During Barbara's final years, as she faced the challenges of Multiple System Atrophy, Ken cared for her with extraordinary love, tenderness, and devotion. His unwavering commitment reflected the promises they made to one another more than five decades earlier.

A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, Barbara's faith was the foundation of her life. As Ken served as a deacon and elder in several congregations, Barbara faithfully served alongside him. Together, they taught Bible classes, mentored young couples, and opened their home to church families and youth groups. Blessed with a beautiful alto voice, Barbara loved singing praises to the Lord.

Barbara's creativity and love for people were evident throughout her life. She owned a Hallmark store in Eastland, Texas, for approximately 20 years and later served as a CASA advocate in El Paso, earning statewide recognition for her dedication to children. Wherever life took her, she formed lasting friendships and found meaningful ways to serve others.

But Barbara's greatest joy was her family. She loved holidays, beautiful decorations, and preparing big family meals. Her table was always a place where people gathered, laughter was shared, and everyone felt at home. Her children and grandchildren will forever treasure Sonic runs, summers at “Camp Nana,” and her famous “Nana Newsletter” text messages that kept everyone connected.

As a mother, Barbara was both a teacher and a friend, passing along her love of cooking, family traditions, and the joy of caring for others. Through her example, she taught that love is not simply something we say, but something we show through the countless little things we do for one another.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, David Waldron Hanna; and her infant daughter, Shannon Renee Parker.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, Ken Parker; daughter Heather Renee Parker Christie and husband Mark Christie; son David Heath Parker; grandchildren Parker Dwayne Christie and wife Melissa Camacho Christie, Marcus Peyton Christie, Paige Renee Christie and fiancé Brayden Steckler, Oscar Parker, Otto Parker, and Opal Parker; and great-grandchildren Mateo Camacho Christie and Julieta Camacho Christie, and her beloved schnauzer, Gunner. She also leaves behind beloved extended family and many cherished friends whose lives were touched by her love and friendship.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that the faith she lived so beautifully has now become sight.

For those who knew Barbara, her greatest gift was the way she made you feel. In her home, the worries of the world seemed to melt away. You were welcomed, you were cared for, and you were loved.

That is the gift her family will carry with them forever.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Barbara's life will be held Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at the Smithville Church of Christ in Smithville, Texas.

The family will receive friends during a visitation from 12:45 to 1:15 p.m. in the church's fellowship hall, immediately preceding the service.