Essie Mae Larry Parker was born in Monticello, Florida on March 2, 1928. She was one of ten children born to Gabe and Lula Jackson Parker. Essie Mae's parents and her siblings, Eugene, James, Roosevelt, Robert, Alberta, Willie Mae, Queen Elizabeth, Janie Mae and Maggie Lean, all preceded her in death.

Growing up, Essie Mae attended the public schools of Jefferson County. Like many others of her generation, she entered the workforce early in life. On April 15, 1948, Essie Mae married Alfred Parker. The two remained married for over 30 years, with Alfred passing on Essie Mae's birthday in 1979. For most of her working years, she worked as a housekeeper for the Wilmer Bassett family. The Bassetts were the owners of Bassett's Dairy, the place where Alfred and several of his brothers worked for most of their years.

A woman who loved her children deeply, Sister Parker was very supportive in all of their endeavors. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and she enjoyed fishing. She was a woman of great faith and worshipped as a member of the Northside Church of Christ.

On Tuesday, December 17, 2019, Sister Essie Mae Larry Parker went Home to be with the Lord. Her love and memory will be cherished forever by her daughters: JoAnn Parker (George) German and Mary Alice Parker, both of Monticello, FL; grandchildren: Tyrone Crumity, Marquita Crumity, Melissa Crumity, Myeshia Peoples. Johnnie Mae (Ricky) West, Aalyah Smith, Fantashia Hawkins, Raynashia Hawkins, Te'Ann McCall, Allison Parker, and Antonio Parker, all of Monticello, FL, Lavondra (Tyrone) Simmons, Alexis Hawkins and Deundra Parker, all of Tallahassee, FL; sisters-in-law: Anita P. Derrick and Eva R. Parker, both of Tallahassee, FL, Jessie J. Parker and Annette J. Parker, both of Monticello, FL; godchildren: Marian Mack Anderson, Orlando, FL and Lisa Smith of Leesburg, FL; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.