Rev. Dr. Judy Lynn Parker Farmer

Rev. Dr. Judy Lynn Parker Farmer July 13, 1953 – April 14, 2026 With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rev. Dr. Judy Lynn Parker Farmer, who departed this world on April 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and tireless service. Born on July 13, 1953, in Washington, D.C., Judy was a beacon of light and inspiration to all who knew her. The cherished daughter of Robert James (RJ) Parker and Freddie Mae Reid Parker, she was predeceased by her beloved parents and brothers, Sonny, James, and Donald Parker. Her spirit lives on through her devoted husband of nearly 47 years, Rev. Dr. Charles Edward Farmer, and their two children, Michael Charles Farmer and Therese Judine Farmer. She was a loving mother, wife, sister, and friend, whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many. Pastor Judy's journey of faith and education was marked by excellence and dedication. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and French from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, during which she was honored with the African American Institute Scholarship to study at the University of West Africa in Legon, Ghana. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to American University in Washington, D.C., where she obtained a Master’s of Public Administration, and further to Logos Graduate School in Jacksonville, FL, earning a Doctor of Ministry. Her academic achievements were crowned with an honorary Doctor of Divinity from the American Evangelistic Association and a 2015 graduation from the Yad Vashem International School for Holocaust Studies. Her career began in education with the Archdiocese of Washington, where she taught at St. Mary's Catholic School in Maryland and at her alma mater, Immaculate Conception Academy. There, she founded the Black Experience Dance Troupe, Instruments of Praise, which continues to celebrate cultural heritage through dance. Pastor Judy also made significant contributions as a paralegal with the District of Columbia Bar and Catholic Charities-Legal Network, and as a volunteer Arbitrator for the DC Bar’s Attorney/Client Arbitration Board. Pastor Judy was a pillar within the American Evangelistic Association, serving as Secretary, board member, and on the credentialing Committee. Her teachings extended to her role as a professor at the Refuge of Hope School of Ministry, where she led with passion and conviction. As the founding Pastor of the Refuge of Hope Disciple Center, she was instrumental in nurturing Christian faith and community. Her deep connection to Israel was evident in her role as a Goodwill Ambassador-Tourism, leading groups to explore and strengthen their Christian roots. Pastor Judy's affiliations with the Alpha Chi Honor Society and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, exemplified her commitment to leadership and service. Beyond her professional achievements, Pastor Judy found joy in dancing, watching films, especially those about WWII, the Holocaust, mobs, sharks, and dinosaurs, and spending cherished moments with her family. Her smile and laughter illuminated every room, and her love for people was boundless, often leading her to share her faith passionately with strangers and friends alike. Pastor Judy's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and dedication to others. Her profound love for her family, including her fur baby, Na-Na, and her spiritual family, was a testament to her generous spirit. Her legacy is one of love, strength, and an unyielding desire to see God's Kingdom realized on earth. In honor of her life, the family requests donations to the Refuge of Hope Disciple Center, a ministry close to her heart. A private funeral ceremony will be held to celebrate her remarkable life. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for and supported Pastor Judy throughout her life. Your love and encouragement were blessings she treasured deeply. As we remember Pastor Judy, let us carry forward her legacy of faith, love, and service, and be inspired by her example to live with purpose and compassion.