John Henry Parker IV

1932 - 2023

PARKER, Mr. John (Jack) Henry IV, a longtime resident of Kilmarnock, Virginia, passed from this earth on November 14, 2023. Jack will forever be remembered by his family and friends for his warm generosity, adventurous spirit, deep commitment to his family and community, and charming sense of humor.

Known affectionately by some as "Super Jack" Parker, his outgoing and charismatic personality breathed life and levity into any room he was in. Confident, sincere, and joyful, Jack's sharp wit and quick humor would often leave those around him doubled in fits of laughter. A loving husband, devoted father, adoring grandfather, and faithful friend, he left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, and he will be greatly missed by many.

Jack lived his 90 years to the fullest and dedicated himself to serving others in ways both big and small. Through every stage of his life, his lively presence strengthened any community he engaged with. Jack embraced every facet of life with abundant energy and enthusiasm, widely known and respected as a dynamic, fun-loving leader.

Born on November 21, 1932, the only child of John Henry Parker III and Margaret Flournoy Parker, Jack grew up in Richmond, Virginia, where he attended Thomas Jefferson High School. He later attended William & Mary College, earning a bachelor's degree in economics. During his time at William & Mary, Jack was a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity and the varsity cheer leading squad.

Jack met the love of his life, Shirley, while attending William & Mary, and he married her on June 23, 1956. In the early years of their marriage, Jack and Shirley settled in Stone Mountain, Georgia, where they raised their four children together. Jack worked for Safeco Insurance Company in Atlanta for nearly 20 years before founding his own personnel recruiting firm, where he served as President and CEO until he retired in 1988.

In 1999, Jack and Shirley moved to Kilmarnock, Virginia to live on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Jack thrived as a member of the Kilmarnock community and spent his years playing tennis, learning golf, exploring the Virginia coastline by boat, delighting his many grandchildren, and spoiling his beloved dog, Tank.

While in Kilmarnock, he and Shirley both remained active members of the William & Mary Alumni Association and the Indian Creek Country Club. Jack took every opportunity to support those in need, volunteering for the Meals on Wheels program and the local Boys and Girls Club. He also served for three years as vice president of the local Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) chapter.

Jack and Shirley shared a thirst for adventure, a love of learning, and a fascination with the world's history and cultures. The two of them spent several years traveling the globe, visiting 106 countries over the course of their retirement. An avid photographer, Jack documented their odysseys together in spectacular photographs and often shared stories about their travels with family and friends.

Jack was preceded in his death by his loving parents and grandparents. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Shirley Lyons Parker, and his four children, John Henry Parker V, Susan Parker Elliott, Lesley Ann Parker, and Nancy Parker McRee. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Katherine Ford, Parker Elliott, Margaret McRee, Connor Elliott, Spencer Elliott, Hollin Keyser-Parker, and Tristan Keyser-Parker.

While we mourn this great loss, we fondly remember and celebrate the full life Jack lived and the blessing that he was in our lives. He leaves behind a rich and lasting legacy, and his vibrant spirit will endure in the memories of those who love him.

A private funeral service for Jack will be held at a later date at Maury Cemetery in Richmond, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to either the Parkinson's Foundation or the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.