Emery “Jack” Parker, 86, of Batesville, passed away on September 12, 2023. He was born on May 16, 1937 in Houston, Texas, the son of Robert Parker and Eara (Mitchell) Parker Collins. Jack grew up in Koshkonong, Missouri and graduated from Koshkonong High School in 1955, he also had a bachelor’s degree in communications and electronics. He married Arlene Miller on February 8, 1955 and together they had two daughters, Ramona and Jacqueline.
Jack enlisted in the United States Navy in 1955 and was active duty until April of 1975, he served aboard the USS Tidewater, the USS Huse, the USS Albany, and the USS Ellison. He and Arlene lived all over the world while he served including, Norfolk, VA, Pine Bluff, AR, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Belle Chasse, LA. Jack stayed in the reserves until 1983. His specialty was in Communications and Electronics. After his retirement, he worked for Radio Shack in Greensburg installing security systems and Decatur County Farmers Mutual as an insurance agent. Jack was a member of the Batesville VFW, Amateur Radio Club, Greensburg American Legion, and the Guantanamo Bay Reunion Group. He loved Hunting, Antique Cars, Amateur Radio (W5G1G,) and motor home traveling.
Survivors include: Wife- Arlene Parker; Daughters, Ramona (Adrian) Vickery, Taylor Mill, KY and Jacqueline Parker (Pete Oppedisano) Columbus, MS; Grandsons, Andrew Vickery, Bowling Green, KY and David Vickery, Richmond, VA; Great Granddaughters, Audrey and Lyla Vickery, Bowling Green, KY. He was preceded in death by his Parents; Brothers, Charles and Robert Parker.
A visitation for family and friends will be held at the Gilliland-Howe Funeral Home on Friday, September 15, 2023 from 11:00 am until the time of the funeral at 1:00 pm. Doug Brougher will be officiating. Burial will follow with Military Honors at the Smyrna Lutheran Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Disabled American Veterans or to the Smyrna Lutheran Cemetery. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.gilliland-howe.com
