Jack Leon Parker, Jr.: Oak Grove, Ky.

1936 – 2020

     Jack Leon Parker, Jr. of Oak Grove, Kentucky passed away on Thursday, Oct. 1, in Hospice in Smithfield, North Carolina. He was 84.

     Mr. Parker was born July 14, 1936 in Chinquapin, to the late Jack L. Parker, Sr., and the late Bertha Causey Parker. His family called him Leon, his friends called him Jack. He enjoyed woodcarving, rock hounding and finding fossils and artifacts. He enjoyed fishing with family and friends, reading, learning, and sharing knowledge. Everyone who knew him knew how much he enjoyed a good conversation.

     Mr. Parker served his country with courage, honor and dignity in the United States Army for 23 years. He worked in aviation maintenance on helicopters and after attending Warrant Officers Rotary Wing Aviators Course he became a pilot. He attained the rank of CW3. During his service he was awarded: Air Medal, 3 J Award, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Senior Army Aviators Badge, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Expert Infantry Badge, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm (USARV), Vietnam Service Medal with four Campaign Stars, Good Conduct Medal, 2d Award, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Ribbon.

     Survivors include his two daughters, Donna Maria Parker and Cindy Parker Holmes; five grandchildren, Dean A. Parker, Jamie Lynn Parker, Blake Parker, Mecala McCawley Blanco and husband, Jesus, and Tiffanie L. McCawley; a brother, Jimmy D. Parker; and three sisters, Kathleen Parker Gooding and husband, Edgar, Julia Jones and husband, Donald, Lesia Mills and husband, Tony.

     Mr. Parker was predeceased by his wife, Inez Lopez Parker; and a son, Michael Anthony Parker.

     Graveside services were planned for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at Holly Hill Cemetery, Loris, with Rev. Mack Hutson officiating.

     A guest register is available here.