Mr. James “Willard” Parker, 90, husband of the late Nora Francis Parker and a resident of Melfa, passed away Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk, Va. Born November 11, 1928, in Jamesville, he was the son of the late John Stanley Parker and the late Cynthia Anna Peppler Parker.
Mr. Parker served his country in the U.S. Army and was a longtime member of Melfa Volunteer Fire and Rescue Co. and Faith Assembly of God, in Leemont. For decades, he worked as a salesman for Sealtest Dairy Company. In addition to being the Eastern Shore’s favorite milkman, Mr. Parker was well known for his passion and knowledge in repairing tractors. When he wasn’t tinkering on his beloved Ford tractor, you would often find him fishing, hunting, or working in his garden.
Survivors include four sons, Jerry W. Parker, of Tasley, Brian Parker and wife, Patty, of Bloxom, Darrell Parker and wife, Vickie, of Onancock, and Randy Parker and Brenda, of Parksley; 10 grandchildren, Mark, Samantha Jo, Dillon, Olivia, Cassie, Briar, Brandy, Shane, Josh, and Fallon; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by an infant son, James Gregory Parker; sister, Mary Helen Parker; and brother, Louis F. Parker and his wife, Mildred.
Funeral services will be conducted from the chapel of the Williams- Onancock Funeral Home Saturday, July 20, 2019, at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Mark Howard officiating. Interment will follow in the Fairview Lawn Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Assembly of God, 22593 Lee Mont Road, Parksley, VA 23421.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements were made by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.
