Thomas "Tom" Dwight Parker, Sr. passed away on August 29, 2023, in Richmond. Tom was a widely beloved leader in all aspects of his life. As a principal, teacher, father, grandfather, church leader and coach, he inspired and touched countless people with his generosity, caring and commitment.
Tom was deeply involved in his church and his faith in God was at the center of his life. He taught Sunday School for many years, served as a deacon and volunteer church administrator, and was a dedicated leader at First Baptist Church of Bristol. With his passing, God called home a good and faithful servant.
Born on September 6, 1944, and affectionately nicknamed Tinker, Tom grew up in a coal camp in McDowell County, West Virginia, where he is inducted in the McDowell County Hall of Fame. He was named All County, All Area, and All State in football and basketball during his senior year at Gary High School. He continued his football career at Bluefield State College where he was named to the All West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Team.
He was the first in his family to attend college and then dedicated his career to education. He was a teacher and coach at Bluff City Junior High School and Assistant Principal at Virginia Junior High School. He then held principal positions at Washington-Lee Elementary School, Cookeville High School, and Holston View Elementary School. Tom served as a football coach for many years at Virginia High School.
Tom's family meant the world to him. He was a loving husband to his wife of 56 years, Sara Parker. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Thomas Parker II (Tommy) and Tiffany, and his daughter and son-in-law, Tina Parker and Jason Bailey. He was a deeply devoted grandfather to his four grandchildren, Thomas Parker III and fiancée Molly Daniels, Tyler Parker and girlfriend Madison Honaker, Iris Bailey, and Opal Bailey.
Tom was preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Parker, and his father, Trigg Parker. He was also preceded in death by his brothers Joseph David Parker and Douglas Parker and his sisters Beulah Blevins, Sue Hatfield, and Mary Dillon.
A memorial service to celebrate Tom's life was held at First Baptist Church of Bristol, Virginia on Saturday, September 2nd.
