Henry Parker Jr., was a devoted father, grandfather, and proud veteran He peacefully transitioned on December 10, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was born on July 8, 1937, in Hayti, Missouri, to the late Jennie Parker and Henry Parker Sr.

Henry graduated from Lovejoy High School in Mound City, Illinois. After school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served his country during the Korean War. His service and dedication to his nation were lifelong points of pride. He was honorably discharged and became an active member of the American Legion Post 148 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, where he remained connected to fellow veterans who shared his commitment to service.

Henry was a longtime member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church under the late Rev. C.E. Walker and Pilgrim Baptist Church, where he worshiped under the leadership of Pastor Sam Shade Jr. and Sr. Pastor Raymond C. Dix. Where he served as a volunteer on various committees.

Henry worked diligently throughout his life He retired from International Harvester, Holsum Bakery and Alconex,. He was always known as being a dependable and hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family.

Henry found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, gardening, watching westerns and any show about animals and bugs. His passion was starting various home improvement projects—but never completing them. He enjoyed building things with his hands and especially took pride in his handmade barrel barbecue grills. Music was close to his heart, especially the blues. He particularly loved listening to Tina Turner and B.B. King.

Henry Parker will be remembered as a strong, dependable, and loving man, a provider, a veteran, and a pillar of his family. His life was one of service, faith, humor, and quiet strength, and his memory will live on through all who were blessed to know and love him.

Henry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruby Parker; his son, Kenneth M. Parker; his parents, Jennie Parker and Henry Parker Sr.; and his siblings, Ora L. Williams and William Parker.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children: daughters Kamilah “Mimi” Parker, Rashida Parker, Tammy Tellez, Tina White, and Lisa Parker; and sons Keith Parker and Jeffrey Parker (Amber). He is also survived by 22 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family members, friends, and loved ones who will forever carry his legacy in their hearts.

“When Tomorrow Starts Without Me “

When tomorrow starts without me, and I’m not there to see; if the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn’t cry, the way you did today, while thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you. And each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand, and said that my place was ready, in heaven far above, and that I’d have to leave behind, all those I dearly love. So, when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right in your heart. 

Love, Henry