Robert David Parent

Today we gather with heavy hearts to celebrate the life of Robert David “Bobby” Parent--a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. While we grieve his passing, we also celebrate a life that was rich in love, hard work, and devotion to his family. Bobby married the love of his life, his beloved wife, Essie Gill Parent in 1959. They were married for 50 years before her passing. Their marriage was one of love, partnership, and adventure. Bobby worked as a proud member of IBEW Local Union 995 in Baton Rouge, during which he and his wife traveled often. He loved fishing with his wife, gardening, and watching LSU football and Kim Mulkey's women's basketball team. Bobby was a member of Natalbany Baptist Church. Bobby was the last surviving of six sons born to Harry Sr. and Bell Parent of Natalbany, Louisiana. He was raised in a family where hard work, respect, and looking after one another were simply a way of life. As the last of his brothers, he became the keeper of so many family stories and cherished memories that connected generations of the Parent family.

Anyone who knew Bobby knew he wasn’t a man who needed the spotlight. His quiet strength spoke louder than words. He worked hard, loved deeply, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His kindness, gentle spirit, and steady presence made people feel welcome and cared for. He taught those around him that character isn’t found in what you say, but in how you live. We are grateful for every year we were blessed to share with him. We’ll remember his smile, his laugh, his determination, and the countless moments that made him uniquely Bobby. Those memories will continue to bring comfort long after today.

Bobby is survived by his daughters, Jana Johnson and Molly Parent; daughter-in-law, Kim Parent; beloved grandchildren, Jessica Parent, Justin Parent, Michael Parent, Zachary Farlouis, Tiffini Crounse, Janie Burns, Russell Ribando lll, Amanda Parent, Rebecca Parent, William Johnson, and Mae Johnson; beloved great-grandchildren, Jaylyn Parent, Haley Parent, Maggie Johnson, Molly Johnson, Benjy Johnson, Isla Jo Ribando, Riley Ann Ribando, Avery Taylor, Michael Schexnayder, Declan Schexnayder, Anya Schexnayder, and Zachariah Ray Bell; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Harry, Sr. and Bell Parent; beloved wife, Essie; sons, Michael and David Parent; grandson, Ben Ribando; brothers Harry, Jr., Alvin “Jody,” Paul, James “Dicky,” and Tom “Cob” Parent; sisters, Mickey Storey, Katherine Metz, and June Overmier; and many nieces, nephews, and loved ones who have gone before him.

Though we say goodbye with tears, we also say thank you. Thank you, Bobby, for the example you set, for the love you gave, and for the family you cherished. Your life made a difference, and your legacy will live on through every story told, every lesson remembered, and every heart you touched. Until we meet again, may you rest peacefully in the loving arms of our Lord, reunited with Essie and all those who welcomed you home. Rest in peace, Bobby. You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at The River Church in Tickfaw, 11005 Highway 442, Tickfaw, Louisiana 70466, on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM until the memorial service begins at 11:00 AM.