Vernon Michael Parker, Sr

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Vernon Michael Parker Sr. passed away peacefully at the age of 64, on February 24, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted and loving husband, proud father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a caring brother. His family was the center of his world, and he made sure each one of them knew they were deeply loved. He was a source of strength during difficult times, wisdom when guidance was needed, and comfort when hearts were heavy.

Vernon was born on August 16, 1961, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Dolores Parker. He is proceeded in death by his mother Dolores Parker and his great-granddaughter Ma'Kailah Parker.

He is survived by his wife of 14 years, Franshundra Brown-Parker, lovingly known as Fran; his five children, Vernon Parker Jr., Taishia Parker, Shalisha Parker, Jabria Wilson, and Javen Brown; and his bonus parents, Richard & Georgia Brown. He also leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren Kwydir, Jahnesha (affectionately known as "Mommaz"), Malachi, Khalil, Jaden, Nidrah, Marque, along with a precious baby girl expected in June 2026, whom he was so excited to welcome and spoil. Vernon was blessed with five great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy, his siblings Earl Parker, Anna Parker, Tina Parker, a host of loving nieces and nephews, his big brother Ben Robinson who took him in when he was young being a strong contributor who meant the world to him, his best friends Troy Hudson, close coworker Mia Bentley, and his vast extended family members.

Vernon Parker, lovingly known by his nickname "Horse," was a man of strength, dedication, and deep devotion. Graduating in 1980 from the Roman Catholic High School in Philadelphia, Vernon was well known for his exemplary grades and how he excelled in both track and football. He developed a lifelong love for those sports, making him a zealous Philadelphia Eagles fan, never missing a game, always wearing his Eagle's jersey. His passion for track also led him to attend many Penn Relays, the nation's oldest and largest track and field meet.

Vernon continued his education at Southern University and later at Atlanta Technical College, where he achieved honors developing and mastering his skills in Electrical Engineering. He served honorably in the United States Marines, embodying discipline and resilience throughout his life. Vernon worked at many places over the years, beginning as a cook at Golden Slipper Camp, where his siblings Earl and Tina attended. He worked at SmithKline Beecham, followed by 25+ years as lead electrician at Turner Broadcasting System, and most recent Northside Hospital. Beyond these roles, Vernon was a hardworking entrepreneur, operating his own business, building or repairing anything he was tasked with, notably well-known for his skills as an electrician. No matter where he worked, Vernon was dedicated and viewed those he worked with like family. He also generously volunteered many years with the American Red Cross, always wanting to help and serve others.

Vernon witnessed his wife studying the Bible, learning about Jehovah, and her strengthening encouragement. He was driven to learn more for himself, which led him to begin his own study of the bible with Jehovah's Witnesses and sharing the good news with others about what he learned. He wholeheartedly believed in the bible's promise of no more sickness, pain or death, and the opportunity to enjoy enteral life with his family.

Above all, Vernon's greatest role was being a devoted and dedicated husband to his beloved wife, and a proud father who raised his children with unconditional love and unwavering support. His family was his heart, and he cherished them beyond measure. He was beyond a great man he was everyone's best friend, always ready with encouragement, laughter, and loyalty. Vernon was also a loving and dependable big brother, caring for his siblings while his mother worked handling every challenge with love and laughter, even when they gave him a hard time. He shared a special bond with his big brother Ben, who took him in and bravely took on the task of teaching Vernon how to drive along Lincoln Drive. One unforgettable lesson had Ben holding onto the dashboard and saying a few extra prayers, and when the car finally came to a stop, he jokingly stepped out, kissed the ground, and declared himself grateful to still be among the living. It became one of those family stories that brought endless laughter. Through it all, Vernon never gave up, and that determination mixed with his humor, loyalty, and loving heart perfectly captured the remarkable spirit of the man so many were blessed to know and love.

He will be sorely missed, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew him. His love, laughter, and unwavering spirit touched all that he encountered.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the chapel of Caldwell and Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Rd., Covington, Georgia, 30014, on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.