When 8-year-old Isaac Thomas Parker passed away suddenly on Saturday, June 7, the community of Clarendon County wrapped their arms around his grieving family in a powerful display of compassion and care.
Isaac, a joyful and imaginative child who loved to read, dreamed of becoming an astronaut and carried his beloved stuffed wiener dog, Fifi, everywhere he went. He had just completed Vacation Bible School at Manning United Methodist Church days before his passing. His favorite color was purple.
“He was a bright light,” said Kelly Gottheiner, youth director at Manning United Methodist Church. “We are heartbroken, but what this community has done in the wake of his loss has been nothing short of extraordinary.”
Isaac’s family was facing financial hardship in the wake of his passing, and paying for a funeral seemed out of reach—until local businesses, church members, and anonymous donors stepped forward to help.
Shane Stephens, of Stephens Funeral Home and Crematory in Manning, donated all funeral services at no cost to the family.
“Shane’s generosity brought peace during a time of deep sorrow,” said Gottheiner. “It was an incredible act of kindness.”
Other local businesses also contributed. Tyler Gibson of Matthew Casket Company offered the casket at a discounted rate as part of the community’s effort to support the family. Carolina Doric Vault Company, led by Jim Woods and Doug Evans, and Michael James of James Burial Service provided their services as well.
Each of these businesses stepped forward without hesitation to help the Parker family during their time of need. Additional anonymous donors, including members of Manning United Methodist Church, also gave generously to ensure the family would not bear this burden alone.
The family also expressed gratitude to Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell for her compassion and professionalism.
Born Oct. 24, 2016, Isaac was the son of Marcy Parker of Summerton. He is survived by his mother and her partner, Dewey Gordon; his maternal grandmother, Tonya Parker “NaNa” Howze of Summerton; his maternal grandfather, Marty Parker (Mary Sue) of Monroe, North Carolina; and two uncles, Treven Parker (Maranda) of Rock Hill and Garek Parker of Summerton.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 13, in the chapel of Stephens Funeral Home with the Rev. David D. McManus Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Clarendon Memorial Gardens. Visitation will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the service.
Memorials in Isaac’s honor may be made to Manning United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 68, Manning, SC 29102.
“This town showed up for a little boy and his family in their time of greatest need,” Gottheiner said. “It’s a reminder of the love and strength we have when we come together.”
Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory, 304 N. Church Street, Manning, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.stephensfuneralhome.org
