Parker Franklin Messick

Parker Franklin Messick, known affectionately as Parker to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama, after a valiant battle with an extended illness. Born on October 21, 1947, Parker's journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to his loved ones, his country, and his faith.

Parker leaves behind a legacy of love and selflessness, beautifully embodied in his marriage of 56 years to his beloved wife, Sylvia Williams Messick. Together, they built a family foundation that was strong, compassionate, and full of joy. Their son, Gene (Teresa) Messick, and daughter, Melissa (Chris) Brock, were the pride of Parker's life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His role as a grandfather to Mary Katherine (Joey) Golson, JD Messick, Sarah (Mark) Austin, Anne Elizabeth Brock, and Win Brock, as well as a great-grandfather to Greyson Golson and the soon-to-arrive Isaiah James Austin, was one that he held most dear. Parker is also survived by his sisters, Linda Young, Jeanette Corley, and Elizabeth Faulkner.

Parker's spirit will also be deeply missed by his extended family and friends, as he was preceded in death by his parents, Lucius and Mada Messick, his brothers, Dean Messick, Rayford Messick, and Raymond Messick, and his sisters, Martha Sport and Lennie Hill. Their memories will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved them.

A proud serviceman, Parker devoted over 26 years to the National Guard and Reserves, a testament to his commitment to duty and country. His work ethic was further exemplified through his 15 years of dedicated service to Pike County. Parker also found success and fulfillment in the timber business, where his love for nature was ever-present.

Parker's passion for life was matched by his diverse interests. An avid fisherman, he found solace on the water, and as a golfer, he enjoyed the camaraderie and challenge of the game. His love for reading was particularly focused on Civil War books, a reflection of his deep appreciation for history. Above all, Parker's greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and immersing himself in the natural beauty of the mountains.

As a man of faith, Parker enjoyed to read his Bible daily and loved his church families at Collegedale Church of Christ in Troy and Westgate Church of Christ in Dothan, Alabama. His involvement in the Romeo Coffee Club in his final years in Dothan brought him much happiness and a sense of community. Those who knew Parker would describe him as a loving, selfless, and faith-filled individual, whose presence was a comfort and inspiration to all.

In every aspect of his life, Parker was a wonderful family man, deeply connected to his roots and always eager to share his love of nature and history with those around him. His legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the things that mattered most—family, country, and faith.

Parker Franklin Messick's memory will be cherished and kept alive through the lives of those he touched. His was a life well-lived, full of purpose, love, and an enduring spirit that will continue to guide his loved ones for generations to come.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, April 5, 2024 at 11am in the Sunset Memorial Park Chapel with Bro. Chris Jones and Bro. Bobby Templin officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Parker's honor.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com