James Franklin Parker

James Franklin Parker, a lifelong resident of Bon Secour, Alabama passed away peacefully November 23, 2023 at the age of 88. He was at home with his wife of 69 years as they would have it no other way. He was born February 20, 1935 to David F. Parker and Hazel Nelson Parker. He leaves a legacy of hard work, giving and was an active member of Oyster Bay Baptist Church supporting many other Christian organizations throughout his lifetime. He was passionate about his work and spent most of his adult life doing what he loved best as a commercial fisherman on the water providing for his family. Jimmy met the love of his life, Barbara Vail, in 1953 while she was vacationing with her family in Gulf Shores. The two were married one year later and couldn’t wait to start their new lives together. He is survived by his loving wife Barbara, his seven children: David (Ellen) of Jasper GA; Eddie (Carolyn) of Purvis MS; Kaye Arata (Joey) of Clermont FL; Johnny (Laura) of Greensboro NC; Lynn of Spanish Fort AL; Sue Raley (Scott) of Gulf Shores AL; and Lisa Falls (Chuck) of Summerdale AL. Though he loved traveling and the open sea, Jimmy’s favorite role was that of a grandparent. He treasured his time with his grandkids and loved being their PawPaw, never failing to make them laugh and have fun. He is survived by ten grandchildren: Chris, Michael, Amanda Wood, Heather, Sarah Riley, Matthew, Dawn Quinn, Brad Raley, Bryan Raley and Anna Loveday. Eleven great-grandchildren Ellie, Kate, Ryan, Ty, Sloane Wood, Nora Wood, Hailey Quinn, Aiden Quinn, Abigail Raley, Parker Raley and Preston Raley. Also many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. We couldn’t have asked for a better father, grandfather or great grandfather and will miss Jimmy every day. His memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him. The family wishes a warm thank you of gratitude to hospice for the “love and care from Gentiva Hospice, especially Angela, Julia, Missy and Chip”. Visitation will be held on November 28 at 10:00 am at Oyster Bay Baptist Church followed by a service at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse Ministry or Youth-Reach Gulf Coast. Pallbearers will be his grandsons and grandson-in-laws.