Lee J. Parker

Lee J. Parker, a cherished member of the community, passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 80. Born in Dowagiac, Michigan on July 14, 1945, Lee was the son of Joe and Olga Parker and grew up in a family that often moved due to his father’s employment, spending formative years in Dowagiac and South Bend, Indiana, as well as parts of Florida.

Lee graduated from James Whitcomb Riley High School in South Bend, IN, after which he served his country honorably in the United States Air Force as a Sergeant Senior Airman, stationed in Charleston, South Carolina. Following his military service, he had a distinguished career as an Automobile Appraiser for five years, which culminated in him establishing his own office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Ultimately, Lee relocated to the Dallas Fort Worth area, where he spent over 19 years as a Corporate Special Investigator for Hallmark.

Lee was deeply involved in his community and held various memberships and positions within civic and fraternal organizations. He served as an officer in the North Texas Unit of International Special Investigators and was a member of both the Irving Citizen Fire Academy and the Irving Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Lee had a zest for life that he shared through his many hobbies, including white-water canoe rafting, camping and a passion for muscle cars. Lee was an avid football fan and was especially passionate about Notre Dame football, never missing a chance to cheer for the Fighting Irish. He loved volunteering at the Irving Animal shelter where he contributed his time and love for animals.

Lee was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Pratt Parker, his parents Joe and Olga Parker, and his brother Roy Rogers Parker. He is survived by his beloved wife, NorweitaBeth Parker, stepson Michael Pratt and spouse Carri, children by marriage David Beth and spouse Kathy and Catherine Brasher and spouse Charles. Grandchildren by marriage Gary Beth and spouse Morgan, Taylor Brasher and spouse Brittany, Cameron Brasher, Austin Pratt, Andrew Pratt and Ashley Pratt. He is also survived by great grandchildren by marriage Chayce Beth, Bradyn Beth and Avrie Beth, niece Julie Miller and spouse Larry, great niece Abigal Miller and great nephew Parker Miller and best friend Fred Dodd.

A Celebration of Life service has been postponed due to weather and will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026 at OakView Baptist Church in Irving, Texas at 12:30 PM.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Baylor Hospital Irving, Heritage Gardens Rehabilitation Center in Carrollton, Ashford Hall Skilled Nursing Center in Irving, and the exceptional caregivers, including Dr. Shilpa Kranthi and Dr. Michael Rothkopt, who provided exceptional care and compassion throughout Lee's journey. They also wish to thank wonderful friends and neighbors, Sylvia Herr, Becky Fowler, Janet Brazale, Rosie Holan, Reed Lancaster, and Wathena Bellew, for their unwavering support and companionship.

Lee J. Parker will be remembered for his impact on the lives of those around him, his service to his country as well as his community, and the love he shared with his family, friends and fur babies. He will be missed dearly and remembered for his tenacious spirit and even in his final months on earth he fought hard and “played like a champion” just like the Fighting Irish.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to DFW Humane Society