This obituary was originally published on Rogers & Breece Funeral Home.
There are some people whose lives leave a lasting imprint on everyone they meet. LaRita Parker was one of those rare people. Sadly, LaRita Asplund Parker passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the Carolina Inn in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Born on November 5, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois, LaRita lived an extraordinary life marked by faith, service, laughter, and love. LaRita was the daughter of the late Loretta and Arnold Asplund. She was preceded in death by husband, Jack W. Parker and her brothers, James, Richard and Ronald Asplund.
A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, she served courageously as a Captain and flight nurse during the Vietnam War. She later became a successful businesswoman, and, above all, was a devoted follower of Jesus. She dedicated herself to caring for others with compassion, professionalism, and a servant’s heart. Her wisdom, encouragement, and love for others touched many lives. We are forever grateful that God allowed her into each of our lives.
A devoted Christian, she found great joy in worship and especially had a love for singing. Her faith was the foundation of her life and guided her in her relationships with family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know her. LaRita had a way of making people feel like family. She loved deeply, listened well, prayed faithfully, and encouraged generously. She reflected the heart of Jesus in everyday moments, and everyone who knew her was better because of it. While our hearts ache with her passing, we are also filled with gratitude for the impact she had on the lives of her family and many friends.
After her military travels and a brief residence in Raleigh, LaRita made her home in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where she resided in the Gates Four community. She was widely known in the community for her quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and ability to bring a smile to those around her. She cherished time spent with friends and family, enjoyed traveling to new places, was an avid fan of her beloved Green Bay Packers and was an enthusiastic player of Bridge with friends. Most of all, LaRita’s greatest happiness was spending time with family and friends. Her warmth, laughter, and joyful spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
LaRita leaves behind her nephew, Scott Asplund of Green Bay, Wisconsin and her niece, Kristy Williams (Gary) of Bradenton, Florida.
Her many cherished friends, extended family members, church family, and loved ones will forever treasure the memories they shared with her.
A memorial service with military honors will be held on July 24, 2026, at Massey Hill Baptist Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina with visitation at 12:00-1:00 PM, immediately followed by services at 1:00 PM. The service will be officiated by Pastor Tim Evans with music provided by Lucy Hemingway. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of LaRita’s life, faith, and legacy of service.
Following the funeral service, LaRita’s remains will be placed at the Sarasota National Cemetery (Military) located in Florida, where she will be interred in a columbarium next to her brother, James.
Though her earthly journey has ended, LaRita’s legacy of faith, kindness, service, and laughter will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in LaRita’s memory to It Takes a Village Rescue, NC at 1200 S. Horner Blvd, #4701, Sanford, NC 27331.