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James Kenneth “Ken” Parker, 56, went to be with Our Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 25th, 2023 at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, following cardiac and pulmonary complications. He was comforted by his wife as he stepped into the arms of Jesus.
Born in Mendenhall, Mississippi, to the loving family of James and Virginia (Bullock) Parker, Ken grew up loving the outdoors and finding every opportunity to be outside. In addition, it was clear he was going to be great working with his hands as he spent a significant amount of time watching his grandfather crafting items with wood. This led to a growing fascination with creating hand-crafted items for friends and family, a skill that would serve him well later in life.
As Ken’s family moved to Houston, Texas, when he was in 4th grade, his life took on more adventures as he grew up in the ‘wild west’. Throughout his childhood, he enjoyed hanging out with his friends and even began learning to drive the same long-haul trucks his father drove. This encouraged him to get his CDL, at just 16, before even graduating Chester W Nimitz High School in Houston. From there, he took his love of the open road and trucking into a full-time career in which he enjoyed rocking to KISS and using music to keep him focused for hours on end.
During this time, he met a beautiful woman who immediately captured his heart. And, after four years of dating, Ken married his soulmate, Darlene, in July 2005. They made their home in Brandon and have continued to live there through present day. And though he continued his trucking career, after getting married, this path was halted when his liver failed and his diagnosis of End-Stage Liver Disease, or ESLD, was thrust upon him in November 2005. This began a long and arduous health battle that, unfortunately, wasn’t resolved even with a liver transplant in November 2014, though he was glad to receive a boost to his daily lifestyle with this priceless gift.
And, even though this continual health challenge sidelined Ken from his time on the road, he refocused his efforts to his original love – working with his hands. Over the years, he honed his talent to craft gifts for friends and family, to include designing and creating tables, chairs, wardrobes and more! His grandchildren continue to enjoy his handiwork and appreciate the joy the gifts bring them for years to come.
From camping to fishing to hunting, Ken and Darlene spent as much time as possible with each other and family. There was never a time, over 18 years of marriage, where they could stand to be separated from each other any longer than absolutely necessary. Even when he was helping his children move out of state, being there for friends in need or being present after surgeries, Ken and Darlene traveled together and made an adventure out of every opportunity on the road. It was clear Ken never met a stranger and left an impact on everyone he crossed paths with throughout his life.
In all, his life provided joy and comfort to those he met and true happiness to those who loved him. And though his time on this Earth was brief, and he is missed dearly, his family takes great comfort in the knowledge his spiritual happiness will last an eternity. Each family member looks forward to the opportunity to see him again in the glory of Heaven.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Edd Parker; his mother, Virginia (Bullock) Parker and his sister, Becky (Parker) Lott.
He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Darlene (Schnarrs) Parker; his daughter, Meagan (Parker) Wenenn; his stepson, Tim Fortman; his stepdaughter, Melissa (Fortman) Roy and husband Cliff; his three sisters, Cindy Darlene (Parker) Boutian; Beth (Welch) Rawls and husband Johnny; and Jennifer Parker; his brother, Jeff Parker and wife Stacey; many nephews and nieces; ten grandchildren; and amazing life-long friends.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 29, 2023, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at Tutor Funeral Home in Mendenhall, MS, with the funeral services being held immediately afterward. Interment will follow the service and will take place at Braxton Cemetery in Braxton. Everyone is then invited to a “Celebration of Life” potluck meal taking place at the Braxton Community Center.
The family also wishes to sincerely express appreciation to all of the friends, family and medical personnel who constantly provided encouragement, prayers and expert care over Ken’s lifetime.
Any condolences may be shared at tutorfuneralhome.com and would be welcomed by the family.
Arrangements are entrusted to Tutor Funeral Home of Mendenhall.
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