John Franklin Parker, Sr.

John Franklin Parker, Sr., 85, of Louisville passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Baptist Health Louisville.

John was born February 7, 1939, in Pensacola, Florida. He was one of five children born to Benjamin Franklin Parker and Sarah Conroy Parker. John spent his childhood on a farm in Russellville, KY, later moving to Louisville.

John was a 1957 graduate of St. Xavier High School where he was inducted into the Hall of Honor for Football and Track (State Champion in both). He received his bachelor’s degree from The University of Louisville and started what would become a very successful entrepreneurial career, having a positive influence on many people.

John was instrumental in creating and developing the Commercial Lending Department at First National Bank. After several years of Commercial Banking and Marketing, he founded Parker Associates, a leader in Industrial Construction Marketing.

John served as President of the St. Agnes Parish, Men's Club and School Board, as well as participated in many other organizations throughout his career.

John met the love of his life, Caroline Bisig while attending high school. On November 25, 1961, they were united in marriage at St. Agnes Catholic Church, and celebrated almost 63 years of marriage together. During this time, the focus was always about spending time with family and friends. John was known for his jovial spirit and humor, which brought smiles and laughter to his ever-growing family and everyone he met.

In retirement, John spent much of his time with Caroline at "Parker's Retreat", their cabin at Nolin Lake, where he became a successful realtor helping many other families fulfill their Lakehouse dreams and making everyone around him feel at home.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by three siblings, Ben C. Parker (Judy), Agnes Parker McCulloch, and George P. Parker.

John is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Caroline Bisig Parker; children, John F. Parker, Jr., Liz Miller (Art), Chris F. Parker (Deanne), and James F. Parker (Jennifer). He also leaves to cherish his memory nine grandchildren, Erin Redding (Scott) Amy Auker (Tyler); Ashley McCreary (Jason); Kirstin Osborne (Chris); Lauren Rhea (Evan); Matthew and Rachel Parker, Jacob and Sarah Parker and nine great grandchildren; and his sister, Sarah Carter (Joe, deceased).

The Visitation will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Tuesday July 16th, at 10 am, 1920 Newburg Road.

The Celebration of Life Mass will be held at 11 am Tuesday following the visitation. John will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery in a private ceremony.

The family would like to thank Dr. Michael Kommor, Dr Kenneth Anderson and the staff of the Palliative Care Unit of Baptist Health for the wonderful care John received in his final days.

Memorial gifts may be made to St Xavier HS or Hosparus of Louisville.