Parker Ray Lynch was born on January 31, 1994 in Woodbridge, Virginia to Shannon and James Lynch, and was the youngest of their five children: Jameson, Christopher, Samantha and Courtney. Shortly after his birth, the family traveled across the country and settled in Mesa, Arizona, where Parker was baptized and raised in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, of which he was an active member. In Mesa, he attended Hermosa Vista Elementary, Stapley Junior High and graduated from Mountain View High School. He later earned his Associate's Degree from Eastern Arizona College in the small city of Thatcher, Arizona.

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Growing up, Parker participated in many activities in and outside of school, including soccer, track, welding, jewelry-making, baking, airsoft and paintball, camping, hiking, singing and attending concerts. He felt most comfortable in the outdoors, enjoying the company of nature and friends, and in the pursuit of adventure. In addition to being the life of any party, Parker was also dedicated to his studies. He was a skilled problem solver and he especially excelled in mathematics and engineering. He seemed to conquer any task he set his mind to, and was fearless in his pursuit.

Parker also had a unique ability to make friends wherever he went, and will be remembered by those who know him for his warm hugs, kind words, supportive nature, his humor, energetic spirit and generosity. He devoted his life to service and could always be counted on to be there for those who needed it the most. He is missed dearly by his family, his friends and his community, who love him and look forward to seeing him again. He died on February 11, 2019 at the age of 25.