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Sumter, SC….Mr. Paul Wyman Parker, beloved husband of forty-nine years to Debbie Parker (Brandt), passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at his residence. He was 71 years young. Paul was born January 10, 1954 in Rapid City, SD. After graduating from North Central University in Minneapolis, MN (Class of 1976), he married Debbie, the love of his life. Throughout their life together, they lived in Bakersfield, CA, Pomona, CA, Aurora, CO, Layton, UT, finally settling in Sumter, SC. Paul worked a variety of jobs, everything from Life Insurance to Candy salesman, before finding his calling as a teacher. Mr. Parker worked in education for over 35 years. He was a high school history teacher, coach, and bus driver. He worked at Aurora Christian Academy, Layton Christian Academy, Thomas Sumter Academy, and Sumter High School where he was currently a favorite substitute teacher.
Paul was an avid sports fan, with none rivaling his Denver Broncos, a history buff, and a dedicated member of Bethesda Church of God, where he sang in the Voices of Praise Choir. His passion for history and his desire to impact the next generation will culminate in the publishing of his book Life Lessons from Lincoln, which he finished just before his passing.
Paul was preceded in death by his Father, Cecil Parker (wife Liz) and his mother Eleanor Parker (Sichterman). He is survived by wife Debbie; daughters Stephanie Simon (Jordan), and Tiffany Coates (Justin); his grandchildren Ethan (fiance Hannah), Zoey, and Gabbi Simon. He is also survived by his 3 brothers Bobby (Cara) Parker, David (Vicki) Parker, and Andy (Tawni) Parker, and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends who he considered family.
Paul will be remembered for his joy, his humor, and his positive outlook on life-all of which were derived from his deep faith in his savior Jesus Christ. As he often quipped, “I’ll have a good day because I choose to!” and “Don't be bitter, get better.” His life verse was Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Bullock Funeral Home.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 4:00 pm at Bethesda Church of God with Rev. Al Sims officiating.
The funeral service will also be live-streamed on this page. Please join us online or in person on Monday to Celebrate Paul's life and tremendous impact.
You may go to www.bullockfuneralhome.com and sign the family's guest book.
The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul Wyman Parker, please visit our floral store.