James Joseph (Jim) Parker

James Joseph (Jim) Parker passed away April 19th, at the age of 70, after a brave fight with ALS. He was born April 4th, 1951 and grew up in Detroit, Michigan. In high school he developed a strong sense of social justice and was heavily involved in the anti-war movement during his tenure at Michigan State University. After leaving university, he continued to work for the betterment of others by establishing Christian missions in the US and abroad. He studied computer programming in Boston, Massachusetts and wrote software for Bell and GE while starting a family of four children with his wife, Pat. He turned to missionary work again, and taught English in Japan. He also founded a foodservice business in Memphis, but left to be closer to family in Valdosta, Georgia, where he went back to school to be a computer systems engineer and worked for the local internet provider. He also started another business in the developing field of smart homes. Still believing in social justice, he delved into local politics, advocating for universal healthcare. He ran for city council, campaigning on a platform of improving public transportation and bringing broadband to all citizens of Valdosta. He was an avid reader and a student of religion, spirituality and politics. He was proud of his hometown of Detroit and loyal fan of the Tigers, Pistons, and Lions. He also loved his adopted hometown of Valdosta and actively tried to improve it.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Pat Parker, his sons Nathanael Parker (Jacksonville, Florida), Christopher Parker (Cincinnati, Ohio), his surviving daughter Alicia Bridwell (Valdosta, Georgia), and grandchildren, Cora and Dominic Pyles, Connor and Ella Parker, and Maverick Bridwell.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 2 p.m. in the chapel of the Carson McLane Funeral Home with Rev. Frank Gupton officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1-2 p.m. Condolences to the family may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home