John L. "Peter" Parker

John Lee Parker of Ivor, Virginia was a true country boy whose heart belonged to the outdoors. An avid fisherman and hunter, he found peace and purpose in the woods, by the water, and beneath the open sky. He could spend an entire day outside, content to watch the trucks pass by and take in the familiar sights and sounds of the countryside. John had a deep connection to the land and took great pride in his knowledge of nature. He could identify every species of plant and tree, and his appreciation for the outdoors was evident to everyone who knew him. His involvement in FFA further reflected his love of the country and instilled in him values and experiences that remained meaningful throughout his life. John graduated from Southampton High School in 1985.

John also found great joy in bringing people together. He loved cooking on the grill and gathering with family and friends, sharing good food, laughter, and fellowship. He enjoyed listening to Southern soul music, which brought him comfort and happiness and added to the warmth of the moments he shared with those he loved.

John drove trucks and worked at numerous sawmills throughout his working years. His love for his family, friends, and the outdoors remained close to his heart.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Garland Parker and Claire Mendoza Parker, and his father-in-law, Rendell Wellons.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Tia Wellons Parker; his beloved children, Lanicka J. Faltz of Franklin, Virginia, Courtney O. Parker (Quaniesha) of Suffolk, Virginia, Precious Thomas of Emporia, Virginia, and Jarious L. Parker of Fayetteville, North Carolina; his stepsons, Torrance J. Bowers and Tyrek J. Ricks of Ivor, Virginia; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandson. He also leaves his siblings, John P. Smith, Lorraine Parker, Gloria Parker Stewart all of Portsmouth, Virginia, and Rosalyn Parker of Murfreesboro, North Carolina; his mother-in-law, Carol Wellons of Ivor, Virginia; and his three sisters-in-law, Tonia Wellons ( Lyndon) Tamara Wellons Cherry (Kinard) of Upper Marlboro, and Helen Holloman of Rochester, New York.

His memory will also be cherished by a host of Aunts, Uncles, nieces’ nephews, and cousins whom he held close to his heart. John loved his family deeply.

Among his cherished friends are Clarence Key, Hosea Smith, and Vernon Claude, who, together with John, called themselves the “Four Horsemen,” as well as his dear friend Reginald Eley. Their friendship brought laughter, companionship, and treasured memories.

John’s love for his family, his joy in the outdoors, his pride in his country roots and FFA experiences, and the moments he shared with those he loved will forever remain in their hearts.

A public viewing will held 3:00 - 6:00 pm, Thursday, October 15, 2026 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held 1:00 pm, Friday, October 16, 2026 at Gilfield Baptist Church, Ivor, VA. He will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. The family has entrusted Crocker Funeral Home with services rendered with dignity, compassion, and care.