Kirby Jerry Parker

Kirby Jerry Parker, 77, of Bennett, passed away on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at UNC Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He has won his courageous battle with cancer and is resting in the arms of Jesus. The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at Bennett Baptist Church, with Rev. Jason Whitehurst, Rev. Tim Strider and Glenn Williamson presiding. Burial, with military rites, will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall after the service. The viewing room at Joyce-Brady Chapel will be open on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 from 1:00 pm-5:00 for friends to sign the register.

Kirby was born in Johnston County on July 23, 1946 to Brody and Medie Ellen Knowles Parker. He was a graduate of Meadow High School. He served in the U.S. Army as a tank commander and retired from Georgia-Pacific in Asheboro, NC after 39 years of service as master mechanic. Kirby was a loving husband, father, father-in-law, papaw and brother. His granddaughters were his pride and joy. He was their biggest fan and never missed a ballgame. He loved fixing things in his shop, with his dog, Lucky, by his side. He could build anything from grills, to lawnmowers and go carts. Kirby took pride in his work, enjoyed fishing, working in his yard and spending time with his family and friends. He was a member of Bennett Baptist Church where he served on several committees. Kirby had a servant’s heart and was always there to lend a helping hand to those in need within his community. Kirby loved his family and supported all of their hopes and dreams.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Doris Williford; brothers, Wendell “Peanut” Parker and Sam Parker.

Kirby is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dianne Parker, of the home; daughter, Kim Williamson (Glenn), of Bennett; granddaughters, Kayla Williamson, of Sanford and Avery Williamson (Alec Brafford), of Bennett; sisters, Magdalene Gillespie, of Raleigh and Brenda Goldston, of Fuquay Varina; twin brother, Erby Parker (Rosa), of Sanford; brothers, Dan Parker, of Sanford and Donnie Parker (Sue), of Sanford; faithful dog and best friend, Lucky; several nieces and nephews and a host of family and friends.

Flowers are accepted or donations can be made to Bennett Baptist Church, Handyman Ministry, P.O. Box 213, Bennett, NC 27208.

Condolences may be offered online at www.joycebradychapel.com.

Joyce-Brady Chapel is honored to serve the Parker Family.