A data processing system includes a memory configured to receive memory access requests. Each memory access request having a corresponding access address and having a corresponding parity bit for an address value of the corresponding access address. The corresponding access address is received over a plurality of address lines and the parity bit is received over a parity line. The memory includes a memory array having a plurality of memory cells arranged in rows, each row having a corresponding word line of a plurality of word lines, and a row decoder coupled to the plurality of address lines, the parity line, and the plurality of word lines. The row decoder is configured to selectively activate a selected word line of the plurality of word lines based on the corresponding access address and the corresponding parity bit of a received memory access request. The concept can also be used with parity bits on columns of the memory cells and a column decoder that selects bit lines associated with column address lines.