James Ray Parker, 87, of Hahira, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, December 26, 2025. Born on January 17, 1938, he was the son of Cora Guess Parker and Joseph "Joe" Brinson Parker. 

Mr. Parker was a lifelong and passionate sports enthusiast. He loved all sports, with basketball, baseball, and football holding a special place in his heart. His athletic ability led to him being drafted by the Detroit Tigers to play baseball. Sharing his love for the game, he devoted time to coaching Little League baseball, basketball, and football in Hahira with the Valdosta Boys Club. When not coaching, you could find him fishing in one of the local rivers or ponds. Mr. Parker worked for 35 years at the Owens Illinois papermill in Clyattville, Georgia and proudly served his country in the Army National Guard, achieving the rank of Sargent and qualifying as an Expert Rifleman. Above all else, he cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

He is survived by his children, Ray (Penny) Parker, Missy Davis, and Joey (Sherry) Parker; grandchildren, Ethan Parker, Jared Davis (fiancée Madison), Erin (David) Nemetz, Morgan (Blake) Barber, Hunter Parker, Tyler Parker, Trevor Parker, great-grandchildren, Saylor Rae Nemetz, Briar Hayes Barber, and Ridge Parker Nemetz; sister-in-law Dorothy Parker and Mary Parker; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mr. Parker was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Sylvia Ann Tyler Parker, as well as his seven siblings. 

The family would like to express heartfelt appreciation to his special friend Clem Washington, a constant presence and family in every way that mattered. 

A special note of thanks is extended to Mr. Parker's caregivers, Stephanie Smith and Crystal Butler; and the nurses who lovingly cared for him. 

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026, in the chapel of Martin McLane Funeral Home in Hahira, with burial to follow at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. prior to service. Condolences may be shared online at www.mclanecares.com. 

Martin McLane Funeral Home Hahira