Doris "Suge" Evelyn Erkhart Parker

Doris “Suge” Evelyn Erkhart Parker, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of her community, passed away on Sunday, November 5, 2023, in Gulfport, Mississippi. She was born on February 26, 1939, in Success, Mississippi to parents Ernest and Nettye Erkhart. 

Doris had a vibrant and fulfilling career throughout her life. She worked as a dedicated employee at various establishments including Watt's Oil, Hudson's Salvage Center, and the Hattiesburg Speedway where she served as the friendly Gate Greeter. Her commitment to community extended beyond her workplace as she served as the secretary/treasurer of the Lizana Youth Association for over 15 years. Additionally, she held the honorary position of secretary/treasurer of the Central Harrison Baseball/Softball League. Doris's dedication and hard work left an indelible mark on those organizations.

Education played an important role in Doris's life. She graduated from Orange Grove High School in 1958 and carried the lessons she learned with her throughout her life. Doris embraced a positive outlook on life and always had a warm smile to share with others. She possessed an incredible ability to make friends easily; she never met a stranger. Whether it was at the ballfield, racetrack, church, or anywhere in-between, Doris radiated warmth and kindness.

In her leisure time, Doris found immense joy in supporting her children and grandchildren in their various activities. From racing to baseball and basketball games, she was their biggest cheerleader. As a proud supporter of the Harrison Central Red Rebelette Softball team, Doris exemplified what it meant to be an enthusiastic fan. Apart from sports events, she enjoyed traveling to gospel/bluegrass sings and exploring the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Celebrating every occasion, Doris loved venturing to different restaurants with her loved ones. One of her latest adventures was learning to use her new smartphone so that she could call her boys every day.

For many years, Doris remained a faithful member of Saucier Holiness Church, where she found solace and strength in her faith. She believed in giving back to her community and actively supported the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, an organization that held a special place in her heart.  

Doris leaves behind a loving and devoted family to cherish her memory. She shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband J.D. Parker, who she deeply loved. Together they raised four sons: Jimmy (Cecellia) Parker of McHenry, Donald (Kelli) Parker of Hattiesburg, Ronald (Melissa) Parker of Gulfport, and Ernest "Ernie" (Cassie Necaise) Parker of Gulfport. Doris adored being a grandmother and took great pride in the achievements of her grandchildren: Jonathan (Hannah) Parker, Brandon Parker, Austin (Jettie) Parker, Darbi Parker, Cameron (Gracie) Parker, Jake Martin, Regan (Logan) Crider, and Riley (Laken) Brown. The joy continued with the arrival of her great-grandchildren: Ryan Luke Crider, Annastyn Rae Crider, and Miley James Brown.

In addition to her immediate family, Doris is survived by numerous nieces and nephews along with other cherished family members and friends who delighted in her company. Her dear Chihuahua companion Kash was by her side for 12 years and brought immeasurable love into her life.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Nettye Erkhart; her brother, James "Bo" Erkhart; and her nephew, James "Kendall" Erkhart.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 10th from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM and on Saturday, November 11th from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM at Saucier Holiness Church located at 18017 N. Bond Road, Saucier, MS 39574. The funeral service will also take place at Saucier Holiness Church on Saturday, November 11th at 2:00 PM. Following the funeral service, a graveside service will be held at Finley Cemetery in Gulfport, Mississippi.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Fresenius Kidney Care Staff of Gulfport, Dr. Paul Mullen and team, the staff at Memorial Hospital, and to her fan club of supporters at Hattiesburg Speedway.

Doris Evelyn Erkhart Parker was a woman who lived life with joy and made an unforgettable impact on those around her. Her contagious smile lit up every room and her positive spirit brought comfort to those in need. She will be greatly missed but forever remembered for her kindness, love, and unwavering faith.