Mr. Harold Joseph Parker Jr.

Mr. Harold Joseph Parker, Jr., 82, of Peoria, Illinois transitioned to his heavenly home at 2:14 pm on Monday, September 12, 2022 at UnityPoint Health Methodist Hospital. Harold was born on June 6, 1940 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Harold Joseph Parker, Sr. and Margaret Bea “China B” (Hendricks) Parker. The family moved to Peoria, IL in 1942 when Harold was 2 years old. They lived on High Street. His mom, the famous “China B” and the family were close friends of Richard Pryor and his grandmother, Marie Carter. Harold married Dorothy Bright and to their union four children were born. He later married Ruth Williams; she preceded him in death in 2002. He later married Jane Fishback; she also preceded in death. Harold had a great sense of humor. He loved making people laugh. He also had a passion for music. Harold was a talented drummer in a band in the 70’s. He had an extensive music collection including his favorite R&B group the Floaters. His children remember hearing the song “Float On” played by their dad for hours on end. Harold was athletic. He earned a black belt in Judo and enjoyed a good game of golf and watching his favorite sports team, the Cubs. He truly entertained himself watching old black and white movies. Harold loved his family and hanging out with his grandchildren and given children candy and dollars at church. Harold had a great work ethic. His main job was at Hoffman Blacktop; but he retired from the Neighborhood House where he not only worked, but was a constant and reliable helper to all who came through their doors. Harold was a faithful member of Mt. Zion M. B. Church. Harold leaves to cherish his most precious memories his loving family which includes four sons, Tony Parker of Springfield, IL, Mark (Christine) Bright of Rockford, IL, Harold (Shelli) Bright of Rockton, IL and Calvin Parker of Elk Grove Village, IL; three daughters, Michelle Parker of Springfield, IL, Diane Parker of Atlanta, GA and Kim Bright of Louisville, KY; one sister, Sylvia Parker of Springfield, IL; a special friend, Sharon Skoog of San Diego, CA; 16 grandchildren; 21 greatgrandchildren; his friends and caregivers, Judy Porter, Lulu Anderson, Rosie Sanders, Charles Putney and Robert Sieks; and a host of other relative and friends. Harold is also preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, Xavier Parker and one granddaughter, Armence Parker. Funeral services will be held at 12 noon on Friday, September 16, 2022 at his beloved Mt. Zion Baptist Church with a visitation beginning one hour prior at 11 am. Rev. James Fleming will officiate. Harold will be laid to rest at Swan Lake Memory Gardens. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com. The service will be live streamed on Simons Mortuary's Website or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Simons-Mortuary-232095303487150 promptly AT THE TIME OF THE SERVICE (Central Time). Due to Covid-19, social distancing is encouraged to be consistent with recommendations from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral home directors have been instructed and should follow CDC guidelines on gatherings, including those directly related to funerals, visitations, or graveside services. *In an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we ask that everyone in attendance: wear a face mask and refrain from hugging, kissing and shaking hands (as hard as it is to see someone you care about and not touch them). *It is our responsibility as Funeral Directors, to do everything we can to advise families in order to honor our beloved Families and to keep everyone as safe as possible. Thanks in advance for your cooperation!

Tributes

Mr. Harold Joseph Parker Jr.

June 6, 1940 - September 12, 2022