Gilbert Alan Parker, Beloved Pastor and Professor, Passes Away at 82
Gilbert Alan Parker, a revered pastor, professor, mentor, and doctor, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on November 6, 1943, in Olean, New York, Parker dedicated his life to ministry and education. He began his pastoral career in Massachusetts in 1970, serving three different churches over 18 years: Bible Baptist (Northampton), East Otis Baptist (Otis), and Grace Baptist (Springfield). He earned his Master of Arts in Biblical Studies in 1986. In 1988, Parker moved to Johnson City, New York, to teach at Practical Bible Training School (now Davis College), where he held several roles, including Vice President of Academics. He completed his Doctor of Ministry in 1998 from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, with his thesis focusing on the role of interim pastors. After retiring from Davis College in 2016, he continued to serve through volunteer work and travel.