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James “Jim” David Parker

James “Jim” David Parker

It is with much regret and many heavy hearts that family announce the passing of James “Jim” David Parker.

Jim’s marriage to Lori brought three new daughters to his life: Jessica (Tony) Huffman of Belpre, OH; Kylie Pickens (Zac Walker) of Williamstown, WV; and Emily Pickens (Brian Taylor) of Marietta, OH. The girls quickly took to their new stepfather once he entered their lives. He proudly served in the role of a dedicated father to the three girls without second thought. Ten years ago, he was promoted to “Papa” and sadly leaves behind eight grandchildren and two grand dogs that he deeply adored. Jessica’s children Juliana, Stella, Graham, Leo, Sullivan and Eloise; Emily’s children Quincy and Penelope; and Kylie’s pups Mountie and Morgan will fiercely miss their Papa.

Jim was a hard worker, whether at his job or fulfilling Lori’s honey-do list. While he enjoyed his career, his favorite work didn’t come with a paycheck. Jim was dedicated to serving others through volunteerism and service to his community. He was involved in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, the Sons of the American Legion Post 159, Masonic Lodge 129, Nemesis Shrine Club of Parkersburg, and Royal Order of Jesters 156 Parkersburg Court. In 2018, Jim began serving in local government as a City Councilman for Williamstown for an elected four-year term. He was instrumental in founding the Williamstown Lighted Christmas Parade. The fruits of his labor also helped feed many hungry local residents through the drive for donations for the Williamstown Food Pantry. He was a kind, giving man that didn’t want credit for the difference he made in the world.

Those who knew Jim know that our lives were all made better because he was in it. He was a loving soul that lived for his love of his family, community and people in general. In an email written in October, he noted “I have learned there is nothing more important than taking care of your fellow human beings. If I can help one person from going through what I have gone through, it will be worth it.” He was one of a kind and the world will certainly be darker without his bright and shining light. However, his legacy will forever live on through all of the fun memories and stories that will be shared for many years.

If you’d like to pay respect and honor Jim’s wonderful life, please visit Cawley and Peoples Funeral Home on Sunday, December 6th from 1-3 pm. Masks and many other precautions will be in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The family will also have a large celebration of life at a much future date, once deemed safe. Jim clearly lived to serve others. The family asks that you pay this forward in lieu of flowers. Jim was passionate about the Williamstown Food Pantry and the Shiner’s Hospital, if you’d like to make a donation in his memory.