David N. Parker

David N. Parker, age 82, born in Dallas, but lived in Houston from infancy to his death, passed away on Sunday afternoon, the 16th of June 2013. He had survived numerous medical problems with the excellent care of the Methodist Hospital’s Heart Transplant team and many other outstanding health professionals to whom the family will always be grateful. A born optimist, with a terrific sense of humor, he never complained, but met his challenges with his usual wit and kindness.

Mr. Parker received the University of Houston’s first Master of Arts degree in Drama, and a Bachelor’s degree in Art, as well as completing studies at the Art Students League of New York.

During his military service, he was a Tank Company Commander in the US Army at Ft. Hood, successfully completing the Field Artillery Officer Candidate School at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, and set the still-standing individual record for the Tanker’s Night Ride.

After the service, he worked as a free-lance commercial artist. As a long-time member of the Actor’s Equity Association, he worked as a character actor, performing in all of Houston’s major theaters, and provided radio voice talent for films, commercials, and industrials. He also wrote, produced, and performed radio and TV ads for clients nationwide.

Of all his many accomplishments, however, he was the most proud of his family. A selfless husband, father, uncle, brother, and cousin, Mr. Parker is survived by his wife of 60 years, Bobbye; his daughter, Deborah Evans, and husband, Charles, and grandson, Christian David Evans. He is also survived by his first cousin, Jim Parker, whom he loved as his brother; and by his niece Margo Michael and her husband and children. He is predeceased by his son, Laird; his parents; and his eldest brother.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from five o’clock in the afternoon until seven o’clock in the evening on Thursday, the 20th of June in the library and grand foyer of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.

The memorial service is to be conducted at eleven o’clock in the morning on Friday, the 21st of June, in the Jasek Chapel, also at Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, where Rev. Sam Glass, Missions Pastor of Second Baptist Church, is to officiate.

Prior to the service, the family will have gathered for a private interment at Woodlawn Garden of Memories Cemetery in Houston.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to The Methodist Hospital, Heart Transplant Program, P.O. Box 4384, Houston, TX, 77210-4384.