Gary Arthur Parker, Sr.
June 25, 1952-November 14, 2025
Gary Arthur Parker, Sr.’s life journey ended on Friday, November 14, 2025, after an extended struggle with congestive heart failure. He was 73 and lived in Watersound, Florida, with his wife, Janet. Gary was the son of Charles A. Parker, Sr., and Nora Pauline McDanal Parker, who predeceased him. He is survived by his wife, Janet (Norris); daughter Rebecca Parker, Hartselle, Alabama; son Gary A. Parker, Jr. (Selena and granddaughter Kristen), Columbia, Mississippi; step-son Matt Johnson, Celebration, Florida; and brother Charles A. Parker, Jr. (Barbara), Antioch, Tennessee; and several nieces and nephews.
Gary was born June 25, 1952, in Birmingham, Alabama. He grew up in Homewood and graduated from Shades Valley High School. He then attended Samford University, where he graduated with a BS (cum laude) and an MBA and a Juris Doctorate (magna cum laude) from Cumberland School of Law. Gary practiced law for 25 years, defending UAB doctors in malpractice lawsuits. After retiring from the law firm of Spain and Gillon, LLC., he concluded his career as a mortgage banker with FirstBank in Birmingham, Alabama.
He often said music was his life, which was evident by how much of his life revolved around music. During his time at Shades Valley High School, he played the clarinet and was the drum major for the school band. Additionally, he was one of Alabama’s two members of the McDonald’s All-American Band that performed in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City in 1969 and in the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena in 1970. When he attended Samford, he became the drum major for their marching band as well. Also, during college, he and several friends formed a band called The Cadillacs. He played the saxophone, sang, and assisted with creating the band’s choreography. The music and the friendship with the other musicians was such an important part of his life. When he retired, he enjoyed supporting and getting to know many of the local musicians in and around Watersound, Florida.
While music was his life, he also loved SEC football, specifically the Auburn Tigers. In August, the countdown would begin for the first SEC game. Going to the games and spending Saturdays watching the games on TV with family and friends brought him so much joy.
Another one of his favorite things to do was traveling. He and Janet went on several ocean and river cruises, which was one of the highlights of their retirement. After every trip, he always remarked that they were so fortunate to have those experiences. One of his favorite places to visit was London, especially at Christmas.
Additionally, Gary liked to plan outings with family and friends. These outings might be to special concerts or trips for special occasions. He particularly enjoyed the visits from family and friends at their house in Florida. He loved cooking and having “themed meals” with coordinating decor.
Gary faced his illness with courage and determination. He will be missed not only by his family but also his special friends. He will always be loved by his wife, Janet, of 36 years, because he was not only her loving, kind, and fun husband but he was also her best friend.
Many thanks are extended to the healthcare professionals and doctors at Emerald Coast Sacred Heart, Sacred Heart Bay County, and UAB for their care and concern for Gary. A heartfelt thank you goes to the staff on the Palliative Care Unit at UAB. They were so kind and made sure Gary had everything he needed in his last days.
Memorials may be given to the UAB Palliative and Comfort Care Unit, 3rd Floor CPM Bldg., Rm C377A, 1713 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, or to the American Heart Association. Please make sure Gary’s name is referenced on the donation.