Beech Tree News Network

James Michael Parker, known to family and friends as Jim, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at his residence in Morgantown, Kentucky, at the age of 74.

Jim was born on September 19, 1951, in Springfield, Illinois, and lived a life marked by devotion, hard work, and steadfast love for those around him. He was the son of the late James M. and Marjorie Weber Parker, who preceded him in death. Jim carried the values of family, service, and perseverance throughout his life, and those who knew him will remember him as a loving, courageous, and passionate man.

Jim proudly served his country as a United States Air Force Vietnam veteran from 1970 to 1974. Following his service, he continued to serve in the Wisconsin Air National Guard from 1979 to 1986. His commitment to duty and country reflected the strength of character that defined his life. After his military service, he worked at Parker Union 76 and later devoted 40 years to a career in industrial maintenance. Even after retirement, he remained active and continued working for Double A Farms.

Jim was a faithful member of Granville Allen Post #5837, where he served as past commander from 2019 to 2022. He was a Volunteer Fireman in Hebron, IL and Genoia City and Albany Wisconsin for several years. Jim was also a member of Salem Missionary Baptist Church, where his presence and fellowship were valued. He found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. Jim enjoyed working with horses and spending time around the rodeo circuits. He also liked tinkering with electrical work and working on the farm alongside Noel Ditzenberger and Bob Annis.

Jim is survived by his wife, Tabitha Parker of Morgantown, Kentucky; his children, Melissa Coe (Jason) of DePere, Wisconsin, Kurtis Parker (Mandi) of Free Port, Michigan, Austin Kuprion (Ashley) of Morgantown, Kentucky, and Jocelyn Ward of Morgantown, Kentucky; and his grandchildren, Teana Fultz, Makayla Fultz, Bailey Coe, Brandi Coe, Logan Parker, Acen Kuprion, Kenzley Word, and Keston Word. He is also survived by his siblings, Deborah Ditzenburger  (Noel) of South Wayne, Wisconsin, Steven Parker (Ann) of Burlington, Wisconsin, Marjorie Parker of Monroe, Wisconsin, Kenneth Parker (Stepphanie) of Genoia City, Wisconsin, Philip Parker (Tracey) of Genoia City, Wisconsin, Tammy Weblow of Elkorn, Wisconsin, and Larry Parker (Stacey) of Pell Lake, Wisconsin. He also leaves behind his special aunt, Helen Ealey of Springfield, Illinois, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at the Jones Funeral Chapel Friday, July 10, 2026 at 2:00pm with Bro. Rob Rowland officiating. Burial will be in the Renfrow Trinity Cemetery where military rights will be presented by the Ohio County AM Vets, serving as pallbearers will be Andy Gidcumb, Everett Mason, Bob Annis, Danny Hester, CJ Givens and Logan Parker. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026 from 4:00pm - 8:00pm and Friday 8:00am until funeral time at 2:00pm at the Jones Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to the Granville Allen Post #5837 573 Veterans Way Morgantown, KY 42261.Please share any photos, memories, condolences or light a candle in memory of Jim at www.jonesfuneralchapel.com. Jones Funeral Chapel is honored to be serving the family of James Michael Parker.