Edwin Parker

Edwin T. Parker, age 95, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 31, 2018 in Schertz, TX. He was born September 30, 1923 in Carter County, Oklahoma, to Edd and Mae McFarland Parker. The family moved to Texas before he started school. Following graduation from high school, Ed enlisted in the Navy and served on the U.S.S. Chester during World War II. He spent time as a government cowboy and built race cars before joining the Air Force in 1953, and later retired with 22+ years of service. Ed met Vertis Mary Ingram on a blind date in 1963 and they were married on December 26, 1963; they welcomed two daughters (Laura Ruth and Carol Ann) in the next few years. Ed was an athlete; he boxed in the Navy, and later played volleyball, softball and ran marathons. Edwin and Vertis bowled at the Little Rock AFB Bowling Center for many years and participated in multiple Senior Olympics at the state and national level.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Virgil, Faye and Joe; sisters, Sybil, Veda, Nelvie and Truda; and his wife of 44 years, Vertis.

Edwin is survived by his sisters, Mrs. Dorothy Wright of Turlock, CA, and Mrs. Annie Weems of Rotan, TX; daughters, Mrs. Laura Hammock and husband Charles of La Vernia, TX and Mrs. Carol Simmons and husband Mike of Berkeley Lake, GA; and grandchildren, Sarah Hammock, Maggie Simmons and Shawn Simmons as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to Sylvan Hills United Methodist Church on November 17. Visitation at 9:00 am and Memorial Service at 10:00 am. Graveside service at Monk Cemetery in Austin at noon.
Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.smithfamilycares.com