John H. "Pete" Parkerson

John H. "Pete" Parkerson

Born in 1937, in Bridgetown on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Pete was the youngest of five children born to George Linwood and Mary Elizabeth Parkerson. Raised on a farm, he developed a strong work ethic early in life – a trait that would define him throughout his years.

Pete graduated from Northampton High School and was accepted to Virginia Tech. However, he chose a different path and enrolled in the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School in February 1957. He completed the program in 1961 and graduated the following February as a machinist. During his time there, he not only excelled academically but also stood out as the star pitcher on the school's baseball team.

In 1962, Pete was drafted into the U.S. Army and served at Fort Ritchie in Maryland until 1964. After his service, he and Betty returned home, and Pete resumed his career at Newport News Shipbuilding. Over the course of 47 years, he held several leadership roles, including Supervisor, General Foreman, and Superintendent of the Machinery Division and the Trident Submarine Planning Group. He retired in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and many lifelong friendships.

Pete is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Betty Sue White Parkerson; their two children, Lynne Hartman and Michael Parkerson and his wife Nicole; four grandchildren, Hannah Hartman Stansberry and her husband Chris, Amelia Parkerson Norris and her husband Willie, Ethan Hartman, and Ainsley Parkerson; and three great-grandchildren, Saylor Elizabeth Stansberry, Palmer Grace Stansberry, and a soon-to-arrive baby boy Norris. He is also survived by his son-in-law, Scott Hartman. Pete was preceded in death by his parents, his four siblings, and many beloved family members.

Pete and Betty raised their family in the Edgehill neighborhood of Yorktown where they were deeply involved in the community. From swim meets and bridge nights to dancing at the clubhouse, Pete brought energy and joy to every gathering. He served as President of the Edgehill Association, Pool Chairman, and Dance Chairman.

A lifelong baseball enthusiast, Pete coached Little League even before becoming a father. He was a proud founding member of the Virginia Jaycees and later the Kiwanis Club.

Pete and his family were introduced to Lake Gaston by his shipyard friend Frank Sebra. After just a few visits, Pete and Betty knew they wanted a place of their own. The lake became a cherished retreat, filled with weekends of laughter, shared meals, fried pies over open fires, waterskiing, boat rides, minibikes, and jet skis with a cove full of shipyard friends.

In retirement, Pete and Betty embraced their love of travel, exploring new places and making memories together. In addition, he was also an active member of Zion United Methodist Church, where he especially enjoyed teaching Sunday School.

Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 36, Pete never let the disease define him. He faced every challenge with strength and grace, fighting the good fight until the very end.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Pete's caregivers: Heartland Hospice, Darlene Pauls, Brianna Grant, Rebeckah Mackey, Megan Temple, Jordan Anderson, and Hannah Conner.

Services will be held at Zion United Methodist Church Monday, October 20, with visitation starting at 11AM with a service at 12 noon followed by a reception in the church social hall.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Zion United Methodist Cemetery Fund. P.O. Box 240 Seaford, VA 23696.