James Grady Parker age 88, passed away in peace at Elmhurst Hosp. on Oct.13, 2024.He was surround with love from his family and friends near and far, his daughter Susan was there with him in his final hours. James "Jim or Grady" was born in Sanford, Florida. His parents James "Onard" Parker and Margaret Elois Thomas were married for a short time. With this he was given a strong hope for Family and will to work hard in all he did. He is survived by his brother James "Buford" Parker and Sister Mary Alice Waldron (Gene) from his father second marriage. His sister Stella (Samantha) Schieber who passed away earlier this year, Evelyn Jones and Kathy Holcer from his mother's side.

He leave behind his wife Norma Villarreal Parker of 66 years, and four daughters Patricia Brenwall (Elmer), Norma Y Marosz (Tom), Susan Parker and Anna Parker. He was Grandpa to 10 grandchildren and 9 Great-grandchildren.

He was known by many in life, as he traveled this earth, and travel he did. As a boy he love to explorer and learn as much as he could. He learn to fly a plane in Florida, love to fish with his dad on the St Johns River or any body of water, he learn to work with his hands like his dad. He joined the Army at the age of 17 with his mother signing. He was station in Germany for 3 years where he learn to speak German and did some traveling there to. When he came home he sold things door to door and found himself in Laredo, TX.  There he found a young Norma Villarreal working at a dime store. Even with the language barrier they married on June 15, 1958. There he found a true family that would last him his whole life.

James worked as an exterminator and became to be known as the "Bug Man". He still had time for many things as camping, photography, carpentry, and most of all to be on the road traveling with family. He later began to look for his lost family and heritage and in doing so brought together more family and friends that lasted for years to come. In the end you could find Jim wheeling around town in his wheelchair with his dog. He had a love for animals and growing things that he passed to his family, and in making things new. He was known for great stories and playing a mean game of Back-gammon, or being on the computer writing a story, searching and keeping in touch with Family and Friends

We all are going to his miss him keeping us on our toes, the calls with "tag your it, You know what to do, do it, Accept and Adjust."

There will be a Memorial Service for James at Divine infant Jesus Catholic Church, 1601 Newcastle ave. Westchester, IL. November 17, 2024 at 3pm.

His ashes will be laid to rest at Lake Sylvan Cemetery in Sanford, Florida at a later time.