SFC (Ret) Thomas John Parker

SFC (Ret) Thomas John Parker, son of the late Thomas and Bertha (Nagy) Parker, was born January 20, 1939 in Kingston, New York where he grew up and attended school. In 1958, Thomas joined the United States Army and served his country faithfully for over 20 years. For his faithful service, Thomas earned several awards and commendations; some of which include: National Defense Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal (6th Award), Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Armed Services Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, and Expert Qualification Badge M16. He had attained the rank of Sergeant First Class. Thomas was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in 1961 and retired from the military in 1982. While serving in the military, Thomas met the love of his life in London, England…Brigid Kavanagh. They were united in marriage on February 23, 1962 in Kingston, New York and they shared over 53 years of marriage together and were blessed with four children: Suzanne, Patricia, Thomas and Michael. In his spare time, Thomas supported the Disabled American Veterans and other veterans’ organizations. He also enjoyed traveling. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family and grandchildren. Thomas passed away Sunday, May 24, 2015 in his home having attained the age of 76 years. Thomas leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Brigid Parker of the home; four children: Suzanne McKinney of Lebanon, MO, Patricia Ann Wrinkle (Terry) of Lebanon, MO, Thomas Robert Parker of Springfield, MO and Michael Jon Parker (Katie) of Clarksville, TN; one sister: Cheryl Fischang of Kingston, NY; seven grandchildren: Kristopher Deitz, Danielle Woodburn, Amanda Parker, Kyle Parker, Montana Parker, Jacob Parker and Merryn Parker; five great grandchildren: Reagan, Madison, Bridgette, Parker and Amelia; several cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Thomas was preceded in death by one brother: Ronnie Parker. Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 28, 2015 in the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church of St. Robert, Missouri with Father David Miller officiating. The songs “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace” were played. Serving as escorts were the United States Army. Burial with military honors followed in the Resurrection Cemetery of St. Robert, Missouri. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church of St. Robert and may be left at the funeral home.

SFC (Ret) Thomas John Parker

January 20, 1939 - May 24, 2015