On Friday, May 21, 2021, John Newton Parker, Jr, passed away at the age of 68. John was born in Sandersville, GA to John and Virginia Parker. Relocating to Leesburg, FL at a young age, he spent his remaining years in his adopted home of Central Florida. Following in his father's and sister's footsteps he attended the University of Florida and received a degree in Journalism. He went on to own various businesses in the Orlando area. Upon his death, he was a partner in the successful hair styling salon, Salon on Maguire, located in Ocoee, FL.

Carrying on the tradition of his father, John was an accomplished guitarist and avid music lover, playing in bands early in his adult life and later playing often for family and friends. He was a passionate University of Florida Gator fan and attended football games regularly in Gainesville. He could always be counted on to know the latest scores and stats on all the Gator sports teams. In his spare time, John loved gathering with his family for travel, holiday celebrations, and particularly spending time playing with his grandsons.

John was a kind and gentle person with a passion for helping others. He was particularly committed to helping those less fortunate in society, donating his time and expertise to helping the homeless improve their self-esteem and readiness for job interviews through haircuts, shaves and personal attire. He was known to many as a loyal and dependable friend, ready to step in and help at a moment's notice.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Newton Parker, Sr (Mayo, FL) and Virginia Bell Parker (Sandersville, GA). He is survived by his sister Linda Parker Hudson, his two children Stephanie Parker Ford (James) and Kolby Lee Parker (Charles), his grandsons Colton Ford and Logan Carson, his niece Jordan Parker Mingus (Frank), and Jordan's children Izabell, Malaki and Lilly.

There will be a private family celebration of his life at a later date. The family asks in lieu of flowers that a donation be made in his honor to the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida ( www.centralfloridahomeless.org ).