John William Parker

John William Parker, 92, of Smithfield passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

He was born in Clifton Forge, Virginia, to the late William Pierce Parker and Lucy Belle Parker. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Leslie Pierce Parker and wife Sarah, of Raleigh, North Carolina.

John is survived by his loving wife, Myrtle West Parker; his sons, Robert Elmore (Tammy) of Suffolk, Virginia, Raymond West, and Todd West (Linda) of Smithfield; and his daughters, Cathy Wilson of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, and Kim West Liebold (Scott) of Smithfield, Virginia. He also leaves behind many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

John was a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. Following graduation, he proudly served in the United States Navy. He later spent many years working at Newport News Shipyard. He was a faithful member of Smithfield Baptist Church, where he taught the Men’s Baraca Class for many years.

John was especially grateful for the care and kindness he received from the staff at Riverside Convalescent in Smithfield. Whenever someone helped him, he would always respond with his familiar words: “Thanks for your help, love you and good night.” Those simple words reflected his appreciation for others and will surely be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held at Littles Funeral Home in Smithfield, Virginia, on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m. A private graveside service celebrating John’s life will be held in Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Smithfield Baptist Church.

Online condolences may be shared at www.littlesfuneralhome.com