Randy was born in Warner Robins, Georgia, to Randall and Gwen Parker. He and his brother, Marcus, were raised in Bossier City, Louisiana. Randy attended Parkway High School, where he played trumpet in the Louisiana All-State and All-Star Bands.

Randy began his career with the Macon- Bibb County Fire Department on July 2, 1990, and was known as a leader and for excelling in physical exams and certifications. He was chosen by the fire chief to be the department representative for the United Way of Central Georgia and the Muscular Dystrophy Association annual boot drive and golf tournament. In 2012 and 2015, he was named Firefighter of the Year for his dedication and service to the citizens of Macon–Bibb County. Randy was known as the go-to guy for his positive attitude, outgoing personality, and trustworthy leadership. He was always willing to help and brought out the best in his comrades.

Randy loved riding motorcycles, all sports, working out, and drag racing. He was a practical jokester who could always make people laugh. People remember the phrases he always spoke. “What’s the word on the street?” “If you need me, buddy, call me.” “Don’t be in such a hurry where you can’t enjoy a walk in the rain.”

Randy was best known for his love for the Lord, his wife, kids, and family. His wife and kids were the light of his world. A true family man, he enjoyed every moment spent with his two boys. His favorite day was riding the ambulance with his older son, Andrew, watching football and working out, where Andrew gave him the nickname “Whole Stack.” His younger son, Chandler, was his “little buddy” and shared his daddy’s love for motorcycles. They had serious conversation discussing how Chandler was going to be a dirt bike rider. Randy and his wife, Sandie, met on a blind date. No matter where they were, if he heard a song that made him think of Sandie, he would grab her hand and say, “Dance with me, baby.”

Lt. Randy Parker answered his last alarm on February 11, 2015. Upon arrival on the scene of a structure fire, he told his men, “Let’s go do this.” Randy gave his life when a floor collapsed as he was going back in to save three of his men. Randy would have celebrated his 25th anniversary with the department on July 2, 2015.

The night before the accident, Randy watched a sermon by TD Jakes titled, “Nothing Just Happens.” As he went to bed, he hugged and kissed his family, telling them he loved them and to remember, “Nothing Just Happens.” The day of the accident, he texted family and friends and told them to watch the sermon and remember, “Nothing Just Happens.” Later that night, Randy lost his life. All who knew Randy or have learned of our story know, “Nothing Just Happens.”