Ronald Keith "Ron" Parkman

1947 - 2025

Mr. Ronald Keith "Ron" Parkman, age 77, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, in Springville, Alabama. Born on December 26, 1947, in Mississippi, Ron lived a life marked by devotion-to his family, his work, his country, and his faith. Ron graduated from L. Frazier Banks High School and continued his education at Jacksonville State University. It was there that he met the love of his life, Gail (Mosier) Parkman. Their bond grew into a remarkable marriage that spanned 57 years. Together, they built a life filled with love, resilience, and shared adventures. A hardworking and loyal employee, Ron dedicated 35 years of service to K-Mart before the company's bankruptcy led to an early retirement. Never one to sit idle, he found new purpose working for Sanitary Rug Cleaners and later as a custodian at Appalachian High School. There, he found joy in maintaining the school grounds-especially cutting the grass, one of his favorite pastimes. Ron proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Drafted just a month before the birth of his first child, he answered the call to duty with courage and commitment. He was stationed in Germany where his wife and son were able to join him until the end of his service. He received an Honorable Discharge and later continued serving fellow veterans by volunteering with the Disabled Veterans of America. His love for the outdoors was evident in countless camping trips, fishing excursions, and afternoons spent tending to his garden or mowing the lawn. A devoted fan of The University of Alabama football team, Ron cherished game days surrounded by family-grilling out and cheering on the Crimson Tide with passionate cries of "ROLL TIDE!" Ron was a faithful member of The Church at Bradford Road in Springville, where he worshipped alongside his wife and family for many years. He especially enjoyed participating in small group activities with the "Been There Bunch," finding fellowship and joy among friends. He leaves behind a loving family who will carry forward his legacy: his beloved wife Gail; son David Parkman (Sherrie), daughter-in-law Donna Williams; grandchildren Kelsi Johnson (David), Justin Parkman (Holly), and Regan Dunn (Joel), Ally Bagley, Ashley Brady; great-grandchildren Braxton, Liam, Nova, Enoch, Skylee, Ellie, Owen, Evelyn, Ryker, Logan, Easton and Baby Dunn expected in September; sisters Dorothy Taylor (Sid) and Shirley Pledger; brother William Mosier (Charlotte); lifelong friends Steve & Sharon Lasley; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews from Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia. Ron is reunited in peace with his parents Lynn & Genevieve Parkman; son Bradley Parkman; brother Pat Pledger; and nephew Kyle Pledger. A memorial service celebrating Ron's life was held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at The Church at Bradford Road located at 35 Bradford Road in Springville, Alabama. The service began at 1:30 PM and concluded at 2:45 PM. Ron Parkman's life was one of steadfast love-for his family, his country, and the simple joys that made each day meaningful. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.