John Reid Parker

John Reid Parker -ATHENS - John Reid Parker passed away in Athens, GA, January 13, 2011. Born in Franklin County, GA, he grew up near Anderson, S.C. and earned a forestry BSF from the University of Georgia in 1950 and an MF degree from Duke University in 1952. -He served in the U.S. Air Corps and U.S. Army 1943-1946, in the European Theater of Operation, Company C, 66th Black Panther Infantry Division. When crossing the English Channel December 24, 1944, he survived when his troop ship, The Leopoldville, was torpedoed and sank, claiming the lives of over 800 young men. He was discharged as a Staff Sergeant in April 1946. -His beloved wife, Cynthia Caroline Todd of Anderson, S.C., passed away May 5, 2010 after 60 years of marriage. For the last 55 years, they resided in Athens, GA. -He is survived by his son, John Reid Parker, Jr. of Atlanta (and wife Kay); and his daughters, Ann Parker of Santa Cruz, CA, Ginny Savini of Atlanta (and husband Tom), and Lee LoPriore of Charleston, S.C. (and husband Chris). -He taught at Clemson College and Iowa State, and 32 years at UGA. An Associate Professor and Undergraduate Student Advisor for UGA's Warnell School of Forestry, he retired as Associate Professor Emeritus in 1986. As UGA Athletic Director for Administration, 1978-1980, he accompanied the Bulldogs football team to their 1980 National Championship. -Reid Parker was a man of integrity, generosity and devotion to his family, a fierce supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs and all UGA athletics. He influenced the lives of thousands of students throughout his many years of teaching and advising positions with the UGA School of Forestry. -Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 16, 3-6 p.m. at Lord & Stephens East, 4355 Lexington Road, Athens. Services will be held on Monday, January 17, 1 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 327 N. Lumpkin Street, Athens. The funeral will be followed by a private graveside service. -In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the UGA Warnell School of Forestry, at 180 East Green Street, Athens, GA 30602. John Reid Parker