Shirley Lean Nobles Parker

Mrs. Parker, widow of Timothy C. Parker, Sr., was born March 22, 1948, in Columbia, SC. She was the daughter of the late Barney J. Nobles, Sr. and Marjorie “Margy” Finley Nobles.

She is survived by her brother, Robbie H. Nobles; her children, Timothy Parker, Jr., Scott Parker, Mark Parker, Sr., Donna (Leon) Rish, and Matthew (Chasity) Parker; 11 grandchildren, Bryan, Brittany, Kaitlyn, Teresa, Luke, Mark Jr., Hannah, Sierra, Jenna, Timothy III, and Seth; and 5 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Timothy “Timmy” Parker, Sr.; her parents; brothers, John Nobles and Joe Nobles; and sister, Elaine Dooley.

Shirley married the love of her life, Timothy “Timmy” Parker, who proposed after just a brief courtship. They were wed on July 11, 1964, in Thomson, Georgia, and went on to share 61 beautiful years together—a life woven with faith, laughter, and treasured memories that live on in the hearts of their family. She wanted nothing more than to be a loving wife, mother, and a grandmother—and she fulfilled that dream with grace, pride, and unwavering love.

A faithful Christian, Shirley was a proud member of Westside Holiness Church in West Columbia, SC for over three decades. She devoted her love and life to honoring the Holy Ghost and feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit. Her faith was deeply rooted in Pentecostal tradition, and she cherished her Bible, hymns, and the sacred words of scripture.

Shirley was wholesome, kind, and positive—She had a smile that lit up the room and was always happy—radiating joy and warmth to everyone she encountered. She was known for her love of holiday gatherings, and her ability to keep the family strong and united. She was the glue that held everyone together.

Stubborn but wise, strong and resilient, she gave of herself freely, always putting others first. Her nurturing spirit extended well beyond her own children; much like Mother Goose, she had a gentle way of caring for others, offering comfort, encouragement, and a loving presence wherever it was needed.

She found joy in the little things—shopping at Walmart, enjoying good food (especially Zesto chicken), and indulging in rich, indulgent desserts. But it was anything lemon-flavored that truly lit her up—zesty like her personality, sweet like her spirit, and always full of life. When life gave her lemons, Shirley made a legacy.

She was a shopaholic, a collector of all things “holy,” and a lover of porcelain dolls. Her laughter, her stubbornness, her kindness, and her heartfelt prayers left an imprint on everyone she loved—and will be remembered always.

The visitation service will be held Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. with the memorial service to follow at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - West Columbia Chapel, located at 820 W Dunbar Rd, West Columbia, SC. Following the service, the family will receive friends and loved ones at the home Shirley shared with her husband, Timothy Parker, located at 2956 Bachman Rd, Gaston, SC 29053.

As Easter was one of Shirley’s most cherished holidays, we will also take this time to follow the family tradition of celebrating the resurrection of Christ. Covered dishes are encouraged and welcomed. The family kindly asks guests to park alongside either shoulder of the road to avoid blocking others in. In lieu of flowers, contributions to honor Shirley’s memory are optional but welcomed. Her life was a gift, and the love she gave will live on in all who were lucky enough to know her. Shirley certainly left this world better than she found it, simply by being in it.

"And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." – 1 Corinthians 13:13

In Loving Memory

Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Until we meet again in Heaven.