Harlond Eugene Parker (Gene/Papa Gene) passed into the welcoming arms of his Savior on July 29, 2020 at the age of 92 after a brief illness. Gene was born October 1, 1927 to Jessie and Donnie Parker of Gorman,Texas who along with his wife Marie and brother Mickey preceded him in death.
The son of a Sunday school teacher and a music director, Gene was a man of conviction and great faith. He loved his Lord and Savior, his family, his friends and his country. His life was one of service which was evident in his desire to serve his community and church. Gene served as a deacon in the Baptist Church and he sat on the Baptist Encampment Board. He was known by everyone as the "go to" person whatever the need might be.
Gene's career with Texas Electric Utilities started in Eastland, Texas and spanned 40 years. He moved to Colorado City, Texas in 1950 where he was instrumental in the construction and operation of Morgan Creek Power Plant. After meeting and marrying Joan Wilson in 1985, he retired and together they traveled the nation in their fifth wheel trailer and left a lasting impression on everyone they met. He loved to garden and always took great joy in sharing his harvest with friends and strangers alike.
He was a sports enthusiast which bagan from his days as a high school star in basketball and track at Gorman High School. He attended Ranger College on a basketball scholarship and devoted countless hours coaching his sons' athletic teams in their youth. He was a long time participant in his church's softball league. Even in Gene's later years, he could be found in the bleachers rooting for his Colorado City Wolves.
Gene was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Joan, his children, Gary and Terri Parker of Alto, New Mexico, Randy and Becky Parker of Santo, Texas, Cindy and Odie Speaks of Murchinson, Texas, David Wilson of North Pole, Alaska and Pam and Scott Cawthron of Lubbock, Texas. He was also the proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren all of whom loved and adored their Papa Gene dearly.
Gene's unwavering faith and love of family will be his legacy and our greatest loss.
A graveside service for Gene will be held in the Elmwood Cemetery of Abilene on Monday, August 3rd at 11 am with Sammy Elliott officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Calvary Baptist Church of Colorado City, Texas or charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Those wishing are encouraged to share a memory by visiting www.kikersseale.com
The service will be broadcast live on Kiker Seale Funeral Home’s Facebook page for all of those who are unable to attend.
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