Helen Harris Parker

Funeral services for Helen Harris Parker will be held at 3:00 PM, Thursday, October 9, 2025, from the chapel of Riser Funeral Home, Columbia, LA with Bro. Duane Moreno officiating. Interment will follow at Oakley Cemetery, Gilbert, LA under the direction of Riser Funeral Home. The family will have visitation on Thursday prior to the service at the funeral home from 1 PM until 3 PM.

Helen Harris Parker, a beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, left her earthly home of 77 years on October 6, 2025. Born in Little Rock, AR, on May 19, 1948, Helen’s life was a testament to selflessness and devotion. As a loving wife to her late husband, Larry Parker, she spent 31 years by his side before his passing 17 years ago. She was a steadfast partner in his ministry and played an integral role in supporting their church community. As a mother, Helen’s love knew no bounds. She also embraced children who were not her own by blood, raising them with the same care and devotion. Known for her fiery spirit, Helen was always ready to be on the go or start a new project. She was the first one packed for an adventure and never did anything at half speed—including ordering her fajita plate for two whenever she went out to eat. Helen also enjoyed the simple things in life: cooking for her beloved dogs, doing word finds, watching classic game shows, and indulging in online shopping with a surplus of salty snacks and a never ending cup of coffee. Helen’s arrival in her eternal home was met with the joyous welcome of those who preceded her: her parents, Doyle Harris and Marie Taylor Harris; her sisters, Jeannette West, Violet Huff, and Sharron Thornton; her two infant brothers, James and Doyle; and her husband, Larry Parker—who, no doubt, ran to meet her at the gate. 

Those left to cherish her legacy are her daughter, Tina Steele, and husband Jim; her granddaughter, Savannah Steele-Welch, and husband Trey; her grandson, Jesse Steele; and her sisters, Glenda Harris, Pat Thornton, and Betty Thompson and husband Guy. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will treasure her memory. A memorial service will be held in Columbia, LA, where family and friends will gather to honor her life and the incredible impact she had on so many. Helen’s kindness, passion, love for her family, and unwavering faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.