Lucille Rivera Parker

July 11, 1943 – April 16, 2025

Lucille "Dutchess" Rivera Parker

July 11, 1943 – April 16, 2025

Lucille Rivera Parker, affectionately known as "Dutchess," passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, at the age of 81.

Lucille was born on July 11, 1943, in Hawaii to Rufo Lara and Reymondita “Rey” Rivera. From a young age, she was known for her quiet strength, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to her family — qualities that carried her through a life full of grace and courage.

As a young single mother of three, Lucille met Norman Parker, a U.S. Navy sailor stationed at Pearl Harbor. Their meeting began a love story that would span more than five decades. After Norman’s military discharge in 1968, Lucille made the courageous decision to leave her island home of Oahu and follow him to the mainland with her children, beginning a new life on the Parker family farm in Washington.

Transitioning from island life to rural farm life meant embracing a culture and lifestyle unlike anything she had known — but Lucille did so with quiet determination and grace. She built a home filled with love, faith, and strength, supporting Norman through 55 years of marriage and raising a growing family with care, resilience, and unwavering commitment.

Lucille found peace in her patio garden, purpose in caring for others, and pride in her long career. She retired after 37 years of dedicated service as a custodian for the Sunnyside School District. Her greatest joy, though, was in her role as a grandmother. Her grandchildren brought light to her days, and she cherished every moment with them, offering her love, wisdom, and warmth.

Lucille’s life was a reflection of her deep faith and enduring spirit. Her favorite scripture, 2 Timothy 4:7, reflects her journey:

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norman Parker; her son, Robert Parker; her parents, Rufo Lara and Reymondita “Rey” Rivera; and her siblings: Edelbert Lara, Rosalina “Rose” (Lara) Damico, Delores “Dolly” (Lara) Villarimo, Alfredo “Fred” Lara, Pacita “Pat” (Lara) Calio, and Raymond Lara.

Lucille is survived by her children: Darryl Parker, Theresa (Troy) Cates, Daniel (Christa) Parker, and Jessica (Darren) Parker; along with numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who will carry her legacy of love, strength, and grace forward.

A memorial service celebrating Lucille’s life will be held:

Saturday, May 17, 2025

11:00 AM

Liberty Church

670 N Liberty Rd, Granger, WA 98932

Lucille will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.