James Sherrell Parker, 94 years old, was born on a farm in New Hope, Alabama (Randolph County). He grew up helping his dad on the farm. Sherrell studied agriculture at Auburn University. With one quarter until graduation, he was drafted into the Army and sent to Korea for a two-year hitch in the Army. Upon his return to the States, he met and married Ann Nolen from Roanoke, Alabama, and they moved to Auburn, for a short time, so that he could finish his degree from Auburn.

Upon graduating, he taught high school vocational agriculture until he went to work for the USDA Soil Conservation Service. He and his wife had three children and moved around the state of Alabama until finally settling back in Auburn in 1974. They were active members of Auburn United Methodist Church for close to 50 years. Sherrell retired from the USDA in the state office in 1982. After his retirement from USDA, he stayed busy helping his son in the construction business and tending to his cows and trees at his home place in New Hope. His work ethic was legendary, and he always led by example. He and Ann spent countless hours with their children and enjoyed spoiling their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mr. Parker is survived by his children: Sherry Parker Henderson (Dwight), James “Jim” Nolen Parker (Lisalyn), JoAnn Parker Penovi (Don); grandchildren: Jake Parker (Erica), Caroline Matthes (Ben), Alexandra Alonso (Gonzalo); great-grandchildren: Spence Parker, Liz Parker, James Matthes, Laura Zeta Matthes, Elena Alonso, Philip Alonso.

We wish to convey special thanks to Sherrell’s dedicated and loving caregiver team led by Michelle Brooks.

The family respectfully declines the gift of flowers and suggests memorials be made to:

Auburn United Methodist Church

137 S. Gay St.

Auburn, AL 36830

Visitation was held held Friday, Dec. 30, 2022, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. with the funeral service beginning at 2 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Burial  followed in Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery.