James "Butch" Parker

James “Butch” Parker, of Abilene, went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 5, 2024.

Butch was born in Stonewall County on April 18, 1945, to Reuben and Ella Parker and was a graduate of Aspermont High School.  He attended Texas Tech University and Hardin-Simmons University.  He married the love of his life, Carole Ann Burton on January 17, 1963.   

For over 50-years Butch worked in the insurance industry including forming his own business. Butch was active as a Bible teacher in his local church, also serving as an ordained deacon and on countless committees over the years.  In his spare time Butch enjoyed spending time on his property in Eastland County, attending activities of his kids and grandkids, and vacationing with family to National Parks. 

Butch was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben and Ella, his brother Mike Parker, his sisters Kim Walton and June Clark.  

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carole, his two children Kurt Parker (Debby) of Plano, and Sheri Pattillo (Pat) of Kerrville.  Butch was also affectionately known as Poppa to his four grandchildren: Dixon Pattillo (Kendall), Parker Pattillo (fiancée Hannah), Grace Ferguson (Justin), Dylan Parker (Ginger), and two great-grandchildren, Knox and Harper Pattillo.  He is also survived by his siblings Dickie Parker, Judy Wofford, and Randy Parker.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Broadview Baptist Church, in Abilene on Monday, February 12, with Wes Terry officiating. Broadview Baptist Church will provide a live stream of the service at https://www.youtube.com/c/BroadviewChurch

Butch will be buried in a private ceremony at Elmwood Memorial Park in Abilene.  Services are under the direction of The Hamil Family Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Kurt Parker, Pat Pattillo, Dylan Parker, Dixon Pattillo, Parker Pattillo, and Justin Ferguson.

Memorials may be given to Broadview Baptist Church Family Crisis Fund (2500 South 27^th, Abilene TX 79605) or to Samaritan’s Purse (www.samaritanspurse.org).

The family of James Parker wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Will Shudde, the Hendrick Medical Center’s staff on the 5^th and 6^th Floors, and the many friends and family that have supported us with prayer and love.