Grable Parker's Obituary
While celebrating his life and cherishing his memories, we regret to announce the passing of Donald Grable Parker, 81, surrounded by family, in his hometown of Eustis, FL. Grable transitioned to Heaven on January 19, 2024. As a watermelon farmer and broker, he continued working throughout the last weeks of his life. Grable was dedicated to his family and pets, his passion for work, his love of nature, and his desire to stay alive. He was an avid hunter and fisherman since childhood, spending time on Florida waters spanning across the entire state, beginning on Lake Gracie, moving to the open waters in Miami and then his favored Sanibel & Captiva shorelines. Grable’s most treasured moments were spent on the water, under the open skies or camouflaged within the quiet of the woods.
Grable was born and raised in Eustis, FL to Sonny & Emily Parker, and graduated from Eustis High School. Despite his own desires of attending The University of Florida, he made his parents proud by becoming an alumni from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. He wore his class ring, every day of his life with pride, while still bleeding orange and blue. After spending 33 years farming watermelons and raising his daughters in Ft. Myers, FL, he returned to his hometown of Eustis to recline in his last chapter.
Grable is survived by his Life partner ~ Emeline Parker of Eustis, Daughters ~ Zann Parker of New York City, Kane Parker Frazier of St. Simons Island, his three Grandchildren ~ Graeline Frazier, Way Frazier, River Vail, and his two yellow-haired best friends ~ Rhett and Scarlett Parker.
Services will he held in the Hamlin & Hilbish Chapel, Eustis FL at 1 PM on Monday, February 5, 2024, Rev. Brooks Braswell will officiate, interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery., Eustis.
For those unable to attend the services, please click the link below either at the time of service or after to be able to view.
https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/northstar/97374/hash:F36382E939FC5DA1
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Lisa Marie Karban, 16435 McKinley Road, Umatilla, FL 32784. Lisa is a beloved friend of Grable’s, and small business owner of Bark Town & Kitty City of Umatilla. She has helped tremendously over the years and has offered temporary adoption for Rhett and Scarlett until a permanent family can be established.
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