Donald Parker, a follower of Jesus Christ and catalyst of three generations of graduates from the University of Alabama, passed away on Oct. 22. A Lineville, Alabama, native, he was 87 years old. He was the son of Emmitt and Maudie Parker. Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers; Harold, James, Robert, sister Wilma Poland, daughters Connie and Cecilia. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 63 years, Jean, and his caring son Steve, wife (Shelley) of Johns Creek, Georgia. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, Casey, husband (Alec) and Colin Parker.
Don was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Opelika for 64 years and a long-time member of the Berry Dudley Adult 8 Sunday school class. He was a graduate of Lineville High School before getting his degree from the Capstone. He began working for the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company as office manager in Mobile, Alabama. He then moved to Opelika and was one of the first two employees hired by the then U.S. Rubber Company (Uniroyal) as it was being constructed. He began as accountant on Sept. 23, 1963. Don eventually retired as the accounting manager with 32 years of service from the last owner of the plant, the Michelin Tire Company.
Don had been a member of The Opelika-Auburn Elks Club, the Opelika Exchange Club and was an officer in the local chapter of the Alabama Alumni Association for more than 30 years. He was a loyal supporter of the University of Alabama and Crimson Tide athletics. He was a charter member of the Tide Pride program and was a member of the Alabama Alumni Association until his death.
In the fall of every year, Don and Jean followed the Crimson Tide to Tuscaloosa and other stadiums in the southeast along with their tailgating friends, Hails and Betty Taylor. Don’s connection to the university remained strong over the years as his son and grandson’s attendance allowed him to travel to Tuscaloosa several times. Don’s last on-campus visit was to attend Colin’s graduation in 2018.
A visitation service was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Oct. 29, followed by a graveside service at the Garden Hills Cemetery.
The family respectfully declines gifts of flowers in lieu of memorial contributions in Don’s memory. Please send checks to:
First Baptist Church of Opelika
301 S. 8th St.
Opelika, AL 36801
or online to The University of Alabama at give.ua.edu.