On Wednesday, December 14th, Charles Edward Parker, passed away peacefully at the age of 93. He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 60 years, Alice Pauline Parker. Charlie, as his family and friends called him, is survived by his two daughters, Phyllis Jacocks, (Mike), and Cindy Bernstein, (Rick). He has three grandchildren, Todd Jacocks, (Joni), Brooke Kelly, (Jeremy), and Amanda Wade, (Tom). He was blessed with three great grandchildren, Parker Jacocks, Cameron Kelly and Grayson Kelly. He is also survived by three brothers, Darle Ray (Judy), James (Margaret), and Jack, along with many nieces and nephews.
Charlie was a long-time member of the City of Chattanooga Fire Department, retiring as Assistant Fire Chief in the early 90’s. A faithful and active member of White Oak Baptist Church for many years, he loved serving as an usher and attending Sunday School there.
Charlie was blessed with a caring and giving heart, and often helped out either by his words of encouragement or gifts of food or money to those who needed it.His favorite thing to do was to spend time with his brothers and sisters, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, especially if it involved cheering on his beloved Tennessee Volunteers. Some of the family’s best memories are of tailgating and attending Tennessee football games with him. He had a beautiful voice, serving in the Firemen’s Choir and loved to sing old hymns. This time of year, he really enjoyed singing Christmas Carols, especially when gathered around a piano with family. Even when stricken with dementia, he could remember all of the words to Silent Night, Joy to the World, and many of his favorites.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 17th at 2:00 at the Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel, on highway 153. Family will receive visitors from 12-2 prior to the service.
