Mr. James Parker, Jr.

James Parker Jr. was born on July 2, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to James Parker (also known as Caleb Cody) and Rose B. (Williams) Parker. Following the early passing of his father, James was lovingly raised by Thomas Kelly. He was preceded in death by his loving siblings, Donald W. Parker and Anna Pearl Thomas, as well as his beloved son, Keith James Parker. James was baptized at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church where he became a dedicated member. His faith was quiet yet steadfast, and he began each day reading the Word. James was a doer of the Word, exhibiting the character of God through his love for his family and generosity to others. He attended Pershing High School and later served honorably in the U.S. Air Force as a military police officer during the Korean War. During his service, he met the love of his life, Ruth Beatty. James and Ruth were happily married for 68 years until her passing, just ten months ago. To their union, three children were born: Cheryl Taylor, and twins Fran and Pam Parker. He was the proud grandfather of Chanel Taylor. James delighted in spoiling all his girls, often declaring with pride, "I wouldn't trade my daughters for nothing in the world." Following his military service, he went on to work at General Motors, retiring after 30 years. Alongside his fulltime job, James earned his barber’s license and operated a barbershop where he became known as the barber for both the Krainz Woods community and his extended family. His strong work ethic began in his youth as a paperboy with a route through Detroit’s historic Black Bottom neighborhood. A natural athlete in his youth, he boxed and played baseball. James and Ruth shared a love for travel, making memories around the world. At home, James found joy in life’s simple pleasures - listening to jazz music, watching sports, and tending to his backyard. James maintained a beautiful rose garden in honor of his mother, often sharing bouquets with family and neighbors. He took great pride in keeping his lawn immaculate (nobody on Dean street would dare step on Mr. Parker’s lawn)! He was an excellent cook and his family loved to enjoy his berry cobbler. James was an old-school gentleman and devoted family man, carrying himself with quiet dignity and dapper style. He was soft-spoken, rarely raising his voice yet his laughter filled the room. When James spoke, he meant what he said or as he would put it, “business was gone pick up.” Even in illness, James never complained. Though his memory faded, he greeted each morning with a smile, maintaining his sweet, gentle spirit that Alzheimer’s could not diminish. James transitioned peacefully on September 16, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He leaves to cherish his memory, daughters Cheryl (Anthony) Taylor, Fran Parker, and Pam Parker; granddaughter Chanel Taylor; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and longtime friends, Betty Etters and Marguerite Brooks. Special thanks to caregiver Freda Perry. James will forever be remembered as a man of quiet strength, tender nurturing, and complete devotion to his family.

Mr. James Parker, Jr.

July 2, 1931 - September 16, 2025