Albert N. Parker

Albert N. “Bud” Parker, 76, son of William A. and Emmy N. Parker of Atlanta, GA, passed away at home on Friday, August 10, 2012. Born October 16, 1935, Bud graduated from The Georgia Institute of Technology in 1958. While at Ga Tech, he was the captain of the tennis team, SEC doubles champion, president of his senior class, and member of ANAK. After serving as an officer in the U.S. Navy, he returned to the family business, Beck and Gregg Hardware, which later merged with Genuine Parts Company. After leaving GPC, he became a private investor. He also focused his time and energy on raising funds for, and personally contributing to, organizations he felt demonstrated his love of God, Country and his fellow man. He established the 507th PIR D-Day Exhibit at the Warner Robins’ Museum of Aviation and financially enabled the production of three films honoring veterans, “D-Day: Down to Earth”, “Papa said, We should never forget” and “WWII Flying ACE: Robert L. Scott”.

Bud loved God, his Family and treasured his many friends. He was grateful and proud for having been born an American with all the freedoms and opportunities this country provided. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Robin Rae Parker formerly of Birmingham, AL; daughter Emmy Parker Temples and her husband Joe and granddaughter Mollie; son Robert R. Parker; brother William A. Parker Jr.; nephews William A. Parker III and Richard C. Parker and niece Isobel Parker Mills. He encouraged others to develop a passion and then to persevere and become the best they could with their God given talents. He inspired many to soar and was always behind the scenes encouraging them to even greater heights. He always believed that something wonderful was about to happen and every communication ended with “The Best is Yet to Come”.

He was one of the best and will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Services will be held on Monday, August 13, 2012 at 11 am at Northside United Methodist Church, 2799 Northside Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30305. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 3525 Piedmont Road, NE Building 6, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30305, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at hmpattersonspringhill.com