Richard E. "Sambo" Parham

BELEWS CREEK – Mr. Richard E. “Sambo” Parham, 91, passed away Friday, June 16, 2023 at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home. Richard was born on July 9, 1931 in Forsyth County to James E. and Martha Goode Parham. He was a long time member of Crews United Methodist Church, where he sang in the Choir, and helped with the Chicken Pie Fundraiser every year. Growing up on a farm made him no stranger to hard work, exemplifying a strong work ethic throughout his careers and community.  Richard lettered in 4 sports in High School and was an avid Richard Petty fan.

He was a veteran of the US Army and retired from Crescent Ford in High Point. Richard  was also a charter member of City View Volunteer Fire Department, later transferring his service to Belews Creek Volunteer Fire Department.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by two granddaughters, Lori Ann Parham and Haley Nicole Parham; two brothers, Conrad Parham and Harold Parham; three sisters, Rachel Boyles, Thelma Neal and Jeanette Spaugh.

Surviving are his wife, Wanda Beeson Parham; two sons, Rick Parham (Becky), and Mark Parham (Pam); two daughters, Suzanne Murray, and Stephanie Kennedy (Kenneth); four grandchildren, Amanda Shelton (Joe), Brittany Grubbs (Patrick), Will Murray (Emily), and Katlyn Jelosek (Josh); two great grandchildren, Jamie Claire Murray and Hannalee Shelton; two sisters, Virginia Crews and Mary Alice Boles; and one brother, Alvin Parham.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 19, 2023 at Crews United Methodist Church with Rev. Gary Camp officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the church Fellowship Hall.