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Donald Parker Obituary

Donald Lee Parker CHESAPEAKE - On Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010, the good Lord chose to bring home one of his best soldiers to help guard his kingdom. Sgt. Donald Lee Parker, "Donnie Buck" or "Donnie Jr.," left this world to go to a much better one. He was the apple of his father's eye and joy in his mother's heart. Donald had many friends and was loved for his ability to make people laugh. He has left behind many broken hearts. Donald is survived by his parents, Donnie and Maureen Parker and Phyllis and Mike Franklin; grandparents, Delbert Parker and Josephine McGee; brothers, Nick, Mikey (Danielle) and Ronnie (Shannon); sisters, Crystal (Chris), Jen (Keith), Michele (Mike), Gillian and Michelle. He is also survived by his loving nieces and nephews who adored "Uncle Donald," by his very large extended family from his dad, Mike and his mom, Maureen and his little "Pork Chop" Clay. Donald loved his country and served it well. He is a veteran of the Iraq War wearing his injuries like a badge. He gave his best so we could be free. His family is so proud of his accomplishments and his dedication to the Army. Those who knew him well felt his love and loyalty. Donald was also an employee of the Virginia Beach City Schools for the last 10 years. A celebration of Donald's life will be held Saturday, Oct. 2, at 1 p.m. at Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans Association. You may pay your condolences to the family at www.smithandwilliamskempsville.com.

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Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Sep. 29, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald Parker

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maureen parker

September 26, 2011

Donald, I can't believe a whole year has gone since you left us. We are all so lost without you.Have faith that you will never be forgotten,you are in our minds and hearts always.We love you,
Mom and Dad

Gillian Pirzl

August 2, 2011

Donald Missing you so much.. Wish you were here to meet my new family (your niece and nephew).. Wedding date is set but I know you have a front row seat in heaven..Love you Bubba.

Maureen Parker

December 27, 2010

Merry 1st Christmas in heaven,Donald. We all missed you very much this Christmas,it just wasn't the same without you.Hope you and grandpa,grandma,aunt Carolyn and uncle Ritchie were all together and looking down to see how much we miss you all.Rest in peace,son.
Love,Mom

Katrina Howell

October 22, 2010

I served in Iraq with Parker our first tour. He was a great soldier. He will be missed by all that knew him!

Robin and Eric Keller

October 13, 2010

Donnie you truly will be missed, you were a great friend and i am so blessed to have been able to get to no you these last 12 years at the Credit Union. My deepest sympathy goes out to all of his loved ones

Robin and Eric Keller

October 13, 2010

Donnie you will truly be missed, you were a good friend i am blessed to have been able to get to no you these last 12 years at the credit union My deepest sympathy goes out to all his loved ones

Bonnie Pennington

October 10, 2010

Donald will truly be missed.

Gillian Pirzl

October 4, 2010

Donald, Yeah I know another Poem but you know how I express myself these are all for you. Love Bean

Tears Fall
By Gillian Pirzl

So, I pick up the phone
I hear a dial tone
I dial the same old number
I hear it ring
Thinking where could he be
I get the voicemail
Reminding me he’s not there, any longer

But to hear his voice
Oh, that sweet sweet voice
It brings a tear to my eye
But that’s a tear a joy, as I sigh

I know he is in heaven now,
Wish they had a phone
So, I could call him up and ask
Hey, Bubba when you comin’ home.

Though I know that answer would be a dead end
But if I can still dream now
I know I can pretend
That for now he is still here, with me
Until I see him again.

Please don’t crush my dreams,
People let me be
I know he is gone
But to me not for eternity.

So, if I stare into the great distance,
Don’t ask me where I am
Cause I am here
But my mind is there
In a childhood memory with him.

K. Youngblood

October 4, 2010

I know that we only knew each other a short time,but then sometimes a short time is all you need to know that you are and forever will be a good friend to all. I'll try ton keep your dad calm(LOL). Your family will stay in my prayers.

October 4, 2010

Donald will truely be missed by everyone here at Back Bay Auto. He always kept us laughing. Your a hero Donald, and will never be forgotten, for you have touched so many hearts in so many ways ! My prayers go to your family and friends. Patti Newton

October 3, 2010

My husband and Donnie were in Iraq with the 229th in 03
They traveled together on r&r so when they went back from Dover we were all stuck together for a couple days waiting for their flight i just remember him being very funny during a very stressful time for me and Tim
I remember having phone calls with his mother as i was a keycaller for the frg phone tree
She was so nice and i could tell she was so close to him
My husband is currently serving in Afganistan with the 529th but whats to send his thougts and prayer to your family he is proud to say he served with Donnie and is sorry he couldnt be here for the services may godbless you
all
SGT Timothy Shumaker and Kimberly Shumaker

Mike Anderson

October 2, 2010

WELL TODAY I HAD TO SAY GOODBYE TO 1 OF MY VERY BEST FRIENDS WHO ALSO HAPPENS TO BE MY BROTHER DONALD.THERE WAS SO MUCH I WANTED TO SAY BUT JUST COULDNT GET THE WORDS OUT,I WANT EVERYONE TO KNOW HOW MUCH I CARED ABOUT HIM AND HOW MUCH HE MEANT TO ME.I WILL NEVER FORGET ALL THE GOOD TIMES WE HAD TOGETHER,DONALD TODAY I WAS FACED WITH THE HARDEST THING IVE EVER HAD TO DO AND THAT WAS TO SAY GOODBYE TO YOU,BUT THEN I REALIZED ITS NOT GOODBYE BECAUSE I KNOW YOU WILL BE WATCHING OVER ME AND MICHELE AND THE KIDS AND WILL DO EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO KEEP US SAFE,ALSO I KNOW THAT ONE DAY WE WILL ALL BE TOGETHER AGAIN IN HEAVEN.I THINK I UNDERSTAND WHY GOD TOOK YOU FROM US LAST SUNDAY,BECAUSE HE HAS SOMETHING BIGGER THEN THIS WORLD FOR YOU TO DO.DONALD I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU AND I WILL ALWAYS REMEBER HOW YOU ARE THE ONE PERSON WHO ALWAYS STOOD BEHIND ME NO MATTER WHAT MESS I GOT MYSELF INTO YOU ALWAYS LOOKED BEYOND FAULTS AND FOUND THE GOOD IN EVERYONE. YOU KNEW UNCONDITIONAL LOVE UNLIKE ANYONE IVE EVER KNOWN.DONALD MY BROTHER I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU AND I KNOW YOU WILL BE WAITING FOR US ON THE OTHER SIDE,LOVING YOU ALWAYS MIKE.

Ken Evans

October 2, 2010

Donald, as I sat there today listening to your Dad speak, I couldn't help to think of you playing the 6 quarter game and the good Lord stuck you with a ACE..
I know you can appreciate the humor in that.
Thank you for all you have done, you will be sorely missed by all.

October 2, 2010

I am Donald's Aunt Vicky and the loss of Donnie is heartbreaking. To think that such a loving and loyal person is gone makes my heart ache for his family and especially for his mother and son. I know from experience what a overall GOOD person that Donnie was and the world will never be the same without him, I am greatful that I was blessed with knowing Donnie and honored to be his Aunt. To the rest of my family I am sorry that I could not make it out there but please know that I am with you and not a minute goes by that I don't think about you guys . Love you guys, Vicky Harper. RIP

Vickie Wright

October 2, 2010

Thank you for your dedication to the Army. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. It's good to know that he is with the Lord.

ROSEANNA WARD

October 2, 2010

crystal and family
i am in shock to have learned a little while ago, that this sweet soul is not on this earth.
the memories of the two of you as little ones,flood my mind, the one of him ,was comming in from school, and saying maa, can i help with the laundry,even though there was none for that day.He just liked that one on one contact, he would use that to get things off his chest,i'd never known two kids as you two, who wanted so much, to help with chores, it was wonderful to witness.
I'M not surprised that h'e want to join the military,i felt like we had just connected after so long, and was looking forward to getting to know him more as the man he became,I DO KNOW HE WILL FOREVER BE MY HEROE.
I AM SO PROUD OF THE WAY HE SERVED HIS COUNTRY, AND HE WORE THAT PRIDE SO WELL.
MY HEART AND PRAYERS GOES OUT TO ALL,MAY GODS LOVE BE WITH YOU THROUGH THIS DIFFICULT TIME,,

October 1, 2010

Greg Spiker was just visiting and informed me of our great loss. We both have you in our thoughts and prayers. We will never forget how you made us laugh during those cold months packing all those boxes at Atterbury and during those hot months in Iraq. Giving SFC Hopkins his nickname "Biscuit" and just being you! Until we meet again. JT Seal/Greg Spiker

Shelle Switzer

October 1, 2010

I served with Donnie in 03, his quick wit,smile and good humor always helped in even the hardest days. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in their time of loss.

JULIE ARROWOOD

October 1, 2010

I AM SORRY TO HERE OF YOUR LOSE.I AM FROM THE 229TH AND I KNEW TAMMY AND DONNIE THRU MY HUSBAND. MAY HE REST NOW AND HAVE NO MORE PAIN.

Lisa Berry

October 1, 2010

Michael and I are thinking of you and your family. We are so sorry for your loss.

Cheryl Purdie

October 1, 2010

I had the pleasure of serving with donnie in Iraq (229th MP Co.) He always had a smile and a great sense of humor. Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you

Terry Skidmore

October 1, 2010

Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Donald will truely be missed.He was a good friend and co-worker. He made me smile when we worked together.I am thankful for his friendship.

Debbie Lewis

October 1, 2010

So sorry for your loss.

Diana M. Dorn

October 1, 2010

Donald you were and still are a part of the Virginia Beach Public School -School Plant Night crew family too. I know you are only 3 years older than my son by which you share the same middle name but the way you used to flirt with me you made me feel young again, that I thank you for. We had many talks, you made me laugh and you made me cry, dag gum this is really hard saying good bye to you. You had the weigh of the world on your sholders but yet you held your head up high and proudly carried on,you showed me how strong you rally were in times of troble, I will miss you deeply.
Always your friend: Diana M. Dorn
Bye Bye Baby you are in a better place now no more pain will you feel.

Jenny & Vance Owens

October 1, 2010

Donald will be missed by all who knew him. The lord called up a good person to be at his side. Bless the Parker family and his close friends.

Gillian Pirzl

October 1, 2010

There are no words that you can say,
To make this aching pain go away
I lost my brother
And a piece of my heart
And heaven received another angel
A pearly gate guard.

Why he was taken from us
I don't know
But heaven is take on a challenge,
for sure that I do know.

I know I will miss your goofy smile,
But one day we will reunite
Just not for a while

Wear those angel wings with pride,
And enjoy your beautiful view from the heavenly sky.

Sending our love your way
In every single prayer I say
I hope you know we will never forget you
The impression you left in all our hearts won't allow us to

A kiss on the cheek
A soft whisper good bye
I love you Donald
See you on the other side

Love you.
Gillian your Bean

Michele Anderson

October 1, 2010

It makes me feel so good to see that my brother Donald touched so many lives and made so many people laugh. He was definately the joker of the bunch. 20 years ago Donald was shopping with his dad at Food Lion and when in line he was flirting with my mom. Donald brought our families together. Donnie, Crystal and Donald completed our family. Although he is not physically here we are reminded everyday of all the good times we all had together. He has been a best friend to my husband Mike and a loving and caring uncle to Anthony and Payton. As for me well Donald is my loving brother and hero. Thank You Donald for all of the memories I will treasure them forever. Until we meet again I Love You!!! (Oh yeah this is for you Donald....what we're not blood)
Love,
Michele

Tanya Seymore

October 1, 2010

The Virginia Army National Guard has lost an outstanding soldier. It is of great sadness to hear of a life taken too soon. My heart and prayers are with Donnie's loved ones as we try to make peace knowing he's in Gods hands now.

MAJ Tanya Seymore, VaARNG

CSM Daryl Plude

September 30, 2010

I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of this great warrior. I will never forget Donnie and his crew John Polak and Greg Siedlecki. Those guys kept us in stitches while in Iraq. Some of the hardest working guys I had in the platoon. It was an honor to serve with Donnie. You will be missed! To Tammy and the family if you need anything just ask.

Linda & Freddie Mapstone

September 30, 2010

WE will always love you and have your memories in our hearts. You were a wonderful nephew and I am so proud to have been your aunt. You are in great hands now and all the pain you have suffered is gone. Our pain we go on but it's because we all loved you so. We called you Donald but He called you home. Rest in peace Chicken Wings.
Our love, Aunt Linda and Uncle Freddie

Walter Dronebarger

September 30, 2010

The world has lost another true hero. To his family there are no words to be said that can fill the hole in your heart. Donnie was a lovable, very funny guy and it was a honor to know and serve with him. Save me a spot at the spades table brother. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Patrick Dunthorn

September 30, 2010

To The Parker Family, I'm very sorry for Donnie's passing. I only knew Donnie for a short time working with him at the schools. In that time I found Donnie to be a very compassionate nice person to everyone. I will miss seeing him and joking around with him at the plant. Take care of each other and stay strong.

Chuck Johnson

September 30, 2010

What a funny and lovable guy he was , I still can't believe it . He was like a brother to me and I'll miss how we could crack each other up . He will be missed by so many but I know for sure that we will all meet with him in the future and the laughs and smiles will be back again . God Bless

Marie Chakan

September 30, 2010

What an amazing man...from an incredible family. His laughter, sense of humor and good-hearted nature will live on in Clay and everyone else who was fortunate enough to have known him. My hope is that the great memories will long outlast the pain in losing him. Love to you all,
Marie Chakan

Andrea

September 30, 2010

Tammy Parker, I'm very sorry to hear about your loss and I know you will do the best you can to handle all that has been handed to you! I love you! Stay strong!

ann, tina, mickey, brandon, and bradley sommer/bradberry

September 30, 2010

Donnie Moe Crystal and family. Please know u are always n our hearts and prayers. Sorry for your loss. We did not see him much but when we did we always got our hugs and kisses. He will be greatly missed. Don't worry though dad and grandma will take good care of him.

Nicole (Harkins) Duchman

September 30, 2010

Parker was always smiling, always joking, always laughing, which made a year deployment that much easier. The world lost a great man. I'm sad to miss the services, I know he will be surrounded by many great friends and family. My heart goes out to his family.

Tonya Bright Doebler

September 30, 2010

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Donnie had become like a son to my mom & dad and was special enough for God to place him in my grandmothers home. Im just sad he couldnt enjoy it longer. He was a great help to my parents & watched out for them. Soldier through & through....Thank you for serving our country and being there for my family when they needed you. You will be greatly missed.

Dan Bright

September 30, 2010

We are so sorry that Donald was taken from us at such a young age. He was the son we never had and a true friend to all he met. GOD be with the family and people who's life he has enriched while on this earth. Love you Donald.

Patty (Mapstone) Rice

September 30, 2010

To My Beautiful Cousin, Donald -
I will forever keep you in my heart and prayers. I can remember with precise clarity the deep laughter that you had as a child, and the way that your eyes would sparkle whenever my dad would call you "Chicken Wing." I remember the last time that I saw you and I told you that it was hard to see that little kid all grown up. You laughed and told me that you were only grown up on the outside :)
I am finding comfort knowing that we all have such an amazing angel looking over us now. May God help us all as we mourn the loss of one of the good guys.
Love Forever - Patty
Joe, Bailey, Hunter and Conner

Liz Thomas

September 30, 2010

Donnie,Maureen and family

I was so very sorry to hear of the loss of Donald Jr. having worked at School Plant I met him on a number of occasions and he was always pleasant and had a joke to share - I know how much he will be missed - sending love, thoughts and prayers to you and your family at this very difficult time

Andre Johnson

September 30, 2010

I salute you Donnie for your service and all you've done for Virginia and the Country!!! Godspeed my brother until we meet again.....

Paula Furr

September 30, 2010

So sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

ANGELA MERRICK

September 30, 2010

MY HEART BREAKS FOR YOUR FAMILY, BUT TAKE COMFORT IN KNOWING NOW HE IS ONE OF GODS SOLDIERS, AN ANGEL TO WATCH OVER YOU. I SO REGRET NOT MAKING AN ATTEMPT TO BE MORE INVOLVED IN HIS LIFE!!! HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED !

Pat Peterson

September 30, 2010

My heart goes out to you and your family.

Craig Stark

September 30, 2010

Sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.

William Dorsch

September 30, 2010

Sorry for your loss.

September 30, 2010

Michelle and family, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. With much love.

Tina Rogowski

September 29, 2010

So sorry for your loss.

Chris clarke

September 29, 2010

I will miss you

September 29, 2010

JAMIE, KATIE, ALI, TAYLOR, JAKE, ADDYSON GUSTAFSON

LOVE YOU CUZ!!...I KNOW IT HAD BEEN A VERY LONG TIME SINCE I HAVE SEEN YOU BUT LOVE YOU JUST THE SAME!...HOOOOOAHHHH

1SG Brian Coleman

September 29, 2010

Donnie always had a way in making one laugh; his sense of humor and work ethic are certainly things that I will fondly remember. I'm so sorry to hear of this tragic loss; my prayers are with you all and my hope is that his legacy will remain with us all.

Laura Ilvento

September 29, 2010

Clay and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. May the memories you have comfort you through this most difficult time. My thoughts are with you all.
Keep making your Dad proud, Clay!

Cheryl Jones

September 29, 2010

To my family,I cannot find the words to tell you how sorry I am for the loss of my nephew. Phyllis and Donnie and Crystal I wish I could ease the pain for you. He was a wonderful son,stepson,father,brother, and a proud soldier. He will be missed by all that loved him.He will have no more pain now. I love you all so very much.
Aunt Cheryl,Uncle Dan,cousins Jamie, Marty & Rachel

Mike Martin

September 29, 2010

So very sorry to learn of your loss. He was a joy to be around and his laughter will be deeply missed. Always enjoyed playing cards with him. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

KEVIN FOXWELL

September 29, 2010

"REST IN PEACE BROTHER IN ARMS PROUD TO SERVE NEXT TO YOU" SSG KEVIN W.FOXWELL

T Jones

September 29, 2010

If he had to go ....at least he was here stateside instead of some foreign country. Prayers to the family, and Donnie you can rest now, no more pain!! Our loss, heavens gain.

Colleen Dawson

September 29, 2010

Donnie, Maureen and family- I am saddened to hear of Donald's passing. I hope you find comfort in happy memories and knowing he is now in God's hands.

Gus Passaris

September 29, 2010

Dear Donnie and family,
I was so saddened to hear of Donald's passing.You can be proud of your achievement of raising such a fine son and man.He was quite the trooper and everyone was blessed by meeting him and being around him as well.I will miss his quick wit and winning smile. God bless you all and may his memory be eternal.

With deepest sorrow, Gus Passaris.

Walter Dronebarger

September 29, 2010

The world has lost another true hero, I served with Donnie and know the countless hours he devoted to the 229th, his family and his friends. Save me a spot at the spades table brother. To his family no words can fill the hole that you all are feeling, you are in my thoughts and Prayers.

Peggy, Shelby and Neal Nelson

September 29, 2010

We are so deeply sorry for your loss. We will truly miss Donald and will always remember him as a sincere and talented young man, good friend and honored veteran. You are family to us. Please know we are here for you to call on at any time. Our love and prayers are with you.

Tom and Jeanette Cheezum

September 29, 2010

We are thinking about you and your family during this time of loss and sorrow. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.

Amy Wingfield, SSG

September 29, 2010

My condolences to the Parker family. I served with Donnie and am deeply saddened by his passing. The 229th Military Police was a family - and even though we did not have constant contact, we were always connected by our experiences.

May you find the peace you were looking for, may you soar with no pain, til we meet again my fellow soldier - RIP Donnie

Scott and Becca Reaves

September 29, 2010

Donnie, Maureen, and family- Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Jr. will be missed.

Donnie Jr.- Thank you for fighting for our Country. You will never be forgotten.

Megan O'Brien

September 29, 2010

You do not know me, but I was so honored to meet your son. I never got his name, but I am sure this is him. I recognize his eyes. I was on a plane to Atlanta Sept 18th. He was on his way to Stuttgart Germany. I am the nurse who was sitting next to him on the plane.We talked and I told him I would pray for him...which I did. He had angels all around him, and he had peace. He is a Beautiful Soul...

Char Johnson

September 29, 2010

Memories are the legacy of love, and I hope that they will carry you through this sorrowful time. I am truly sorry for your loss.

Charity and Mike Zellmer

September 29, 2010

We are very sorry to hear about the passing of Donald. Donald was a special person and he will be greatly missed.

Kirby Kellam

September 29, 2010

I was sorry to hear of your loss and will kept you all in my prayers during the days ahead.

John & Marsha Waller

September 29, 2010

Our family was sadden to hear of the loss of Donald. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sadness.

Mark and Tammy Martin

September 29, 2010

May the love of friends and family carry you through your time of grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Chris and Amy Forbes

September 29, 2010

We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

The Halls

September 28, 2010

Crystal,

Please know that we are here for you and your family. We will be keeping you all in our prayers through this difficult time. We love you!

Elizabeth, Spencer and Annie

Scott and Teresa Slocum

September 28, 2010

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

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