Jerome P. Parker , 83, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 4, 2019 at home. He was the beloved husband of Patricia F. Parker (Kelly), and son of the late Olen and Stella (Januskiewicz) Parker.
He was born in Memphis, Tennessee, although he lived in Rhode Island for the majority of his life. As a proud third generation veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he honorably served his country in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Eager to serve, he enlisted at the young age of 17 and served for 13 years. “Jerry,” as his friends called him, was an active member of the Warwick Council Knights of Columbus #2295. As a solid and trusted competitor of the K of C golf league, he was par for the course through last summer. Known for his quick wit and sharp sense of humor, he enjoyed card leagues and softball with his many friends over the years. As a strong believer in social equality and voting rights, he was active in local Warwick politics and a lifelong Democrat. Jerry graduated from Rhode Island College with a BA in English after his time in the service, and continued to be a learner and avid reader throughout his life. He frequented the Warwick Public Library, and always checked the newspaper book page to keep up with the times. Jerry carried a strong work ethic. In his early years, he was employed as a tool crib manager for Lessona Corporation. He then worked in drug education prevention for the City of Warwick. He was also the former owner of Movies and More in Warwick. Working into his 80’s not for monetary gain, but because he was physically able, Jerry enjoyed his job working as a receiver for Stop & Shop, where he made many close friends and was a member of Local #328. He was a dearly loved husband, father, and grandfather.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Donna Nucci and her husband Greg; four grandchildren, Julia, Alexander, Adam, and Jonah Nucci; one sister Gwen Rosati. He was the brother of the late Olen Parker, Gail Cook, Lois Howard, and Jean Allen.
His funeral service will be held Saturday, November 9, 2019 at 9 AM at the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Chapel, 2435 Warwick Ave. Directly following will be the burial, with military honors which will be held at the Rhode Island Veterans’ Cemetery in Exeter at 10:30 AM. Visiting hours are Friday, 4-7 PM at Quinn Funeral Home.
To celebrate Jerry the family invites you to Sam’s (Bassett's) Inn, 2227 W Shore Rd, Warwick, RI 02889 at 12 for a luncheon after the burial. Everyone who remembers him is invited to share stories and raise a toast in his memory together.
In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated and can be made to the Warwick Public Library, 600 Sandy Lane, Warwick, RI 02889. For information and condolences, visit TheQuinnFuneralHome.com
