James L Parker, Jr.

James L. Parker, Jr., 88, a resident of Benton, TN passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at the family residence.  He was a bluegrass guitar and bass player and enjoyed entertaining people with the family bluegrass band.  He was the security guard for the Polk County Fair Association for 30+ years.  The Friday night bluegrass event at the fair is named in his honor.    

He was preceded in death by his parents, James L, Sr. and Nettie Bazzell Parker; daughter, Beth O’Rourke; granddaughter, Kelly O’Rourke; brothers, Harry Parker and Bill Parker; sister, Juanita Dacus; son-in-law, John Godfrey.  

To  cherish his memory, he leaves his loving wife of 65 years, Blanche Brock Parker; children, Susan Cantrell, Sherry Godfrey and Betsy (Pat) O’Rourke all of Cleveland, Jimmy (Kelly) Parker of Benton, honorary children who shared his home are Amy Parker, Josh Parker and Shelby Brook Evans; 35 grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters, Johnnie Sue Ledwell, Mary (Buddy) Waters, Old Fort; brother, Hubert Wade (Shilah) Parker of Casa Grande, AZ; sisters-in-law, Billie Parker and Louise Parker.    Several nieces, nephews and extended family members also survive.  The family expresses a special “THANK YOU” to caregivers, Amy Parker and Christy Thompson. 

Funeral services will be held at 8:00 p.m. Thursday, March 17, 2016 at Higgins Funeral Home with Reverend Pete Morgan officiating.  Interment will be at 12:00 noon on Friday, March 18, 2016 in Oak Grove Cemetery.  A white dove release ceremony will conclude the service. 

The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 17, 2016 prior to the service in the chapel of Higgins Funeral Home.

Serving as pallbearers are Chaz Kaylor, Matt Byrum, Jacob Parker, Josh Parker, Elijah Danley, Tyler Wallace.  Honorary pallbearer is Jamie Wallace. 

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Parker family guestbook at www.higginsfuneral.com.