Obituary for Donald Jerry Parker

Donald Jerry Parker, 83, a resident of Payson, passed away Aug. 4, 2014 at Hospice Compassus in Payson where his care was tenderly given.
Jerry served honorably in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean Campaign where he was awarded the Purple Heart. He also served 15 years as a deputy sheriff with a 100 percent in-service injury. After 20 years as an investigator with the American Automobile Association, Jerry retired at age 58. When not working, Jerry enjoyed making jewelry.
He and the love of his life, Pat, were married 60 years and have been residents of Payson since 1990. Jerry was a member of the Tonto Basin Marine Corps League as well as the American Legion Post No. 69.
Preceding him in death were his parents, William and Mary Margaret; his brother, Gaylord; and sisters, Mary Martha and Claire. He leaves behind his loving wife, Patricia; son, Kirk; brother, Phil; and sister, Patty Greninger.
Everyone is invited to Jerry’s memorial service at 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23, 2014 at Messinger Payson Funeral Home, 901 S. Westerly Rd., Payson.
 Instead of flowers, contributions honoring Jerry may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project (www.woundedwarriorsproject.org).