Arnold McKinnley Parham

Arnold Parham, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, coach, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 67. Arnold Parham was born on January 13, 1958 in New York and moved to Virginia where he stayed.

Arnold was kind to everybody and a hard worker and a very helpful person. Arnold's loving wife of 41 years, Ophelia Parham, stood by his side as a testament to their love and partnership. Arnold's dedication to his country was evident in his over 10 years of service in the US Army, from which he medically retired. Arnold was an Aircraft Structures Technician, and he loved coaching track at Providence Christian School. Arnold demonstrated as an instructor of Hapkido where he earned the respected rank of a 3rd degree blackbelt. He was a funny guy who could light up a room.

Arnold was preceded in death by his mother, Louise Rebecca Parham, father, Franklin Roosevelt Bailey and step-father, Horse Brooks, his brothers, Michael Parham and Franklin Roosevelt Bailey, Jr and uncle, Howard Parham.

Arnold is survived by his devoted wife, Ophelia Parham, 3 children, Karrico Parham (Monifa) and Jermaine Corand (Jasmine), and daughter Marquita Springfield (Torey Oliver). Arnold had 7 grandchildren: Larisha Jones, Laquita Jones, Kennedy Corand, Caden Corand, Kingston Corand, Cloves Corand, and Asher Caleb Parham. He is survived by his sisters, Gloria Bailey, Nadine Bailey, Elois Bailey, Regenia Akers, Valarie Mack; his nieces and nephews, Keshon Lee, Shonnel Mack, Lamarenee Williams, Pierra Parham, Cherri Parham, Ciara Parham and Amia Parham; his aunt, Shirley (Carter) Baker; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Callie and James Springfield; and sisters- in-law and brothers-in-law, Cynthia (Michael) Green, Doris (Jerry) Reid, James Larry (Willie Bell) Springfield, Michael C. Springfield, Jeffery (Sherry) Springfield, Gussie (Jimmie) Springfield, Danny (Sara) Springfield, Christa (Darrin) Springfield. Arnold said to all his nieces and nephews and friends, “I love you and I’ll miss you.”

Arnold's generosity extended beyond his immediate family to his nieces, nephews, and the countless friends and community members whose lives he touched. He was known for his loving demeanor, his readiness to share whatever he had, and his ability to bring laughter and joy to any situation. These qualities made Arnold not just respected but deeply loved by all who knew him.

In his passing, Arnold leaves behind a void that cannot be filled. Yet, his legacy endures through the lives he touched and the memories that will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate enough to know him. The world is undoubtedly a better place because of Arnold Parham's presence in it.

As we say goodbye to Arnold, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to others. Though he may be gone from our sight, his spirit will live on in the hearts of his beloved family and the community that he served with so much passion and dedication.

Arnold Parham will be deeply missed, but never forgotten, as his story continues to be told through the lives he shaped and the love he shared. May he rest in peace, knowing that his life was a beacon of hope and a source of endless joy to many.

A celebration of Arnold’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home with Pastor James Springfield and Reverend Griffin officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time.