T he death of D. Fred Parker in 1996 was a tremendous loss for the funeral home, and for the community as a whole. For over fifty years, he had devoted his life to caring for those in need. Fortunately his son, Fred was able to continue operating the business under the same priciples taught by his father, until the decision was made in 2000 to begin the process of searching for a family to purchase the business that would be as devoted and conscientious as the Parkers had been. In December of 2002 Gordon L. Rhoden Sr., and his son Lee Rhoden assumed ownership, and the name was changed to Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home. Although Gordon is a native of the area, and their family can trace its roots in Colleton County for generations, Lee immediately moved his family to Walterboro, where they have resided ever since. All of the original staff members were retained, and the facility continued operating as it had for the previous 77 years.