James West Parker
James “Jim” West Parker, 95, widower of Pamela Jean Parker, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at his daughter’s home surrounded by his family. He was born on September 5, 1930 to the late Giles Berkley and Hona Scott Parker, Sr. In addition to his loving wife of almost 70 years, Jean Smith Parker, he was preceded in death by a son, Gregory James Parker of Advance, NC; a grandson, Joseph Wells Webb of Blue Ridge, VA; three brothers, Giles Berkley Parker and Robert L. Parker both of Roanoke, VA and William J. Parker of Monroe, NC; one sister, Margaret P. Firebaugh of Roanoke, VA.
James loved his church and his church family at New Life Christian Ministries where he has been an active member since his childhood. He served his church in many ways and built many life-long friendships. Jim completed his education at Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, GA, where he met the love of his life and sweet Georgia peach, Jean. They went on to enjoy and be blessed with 70 years of life together.
Jim served in the United States Air Force and before being stationed overseas in France he and Jean were married on February 14, 1952. After being honorably discharged from the service Jim and Jean began their family and spent the next 11 years in Georgia before moving back to the Roanoke area where he would partner with his brother Bobby and take over the business their father had started, Parker’s Fresh Seafood Market in the market square in downtown Roanoke. A few years later they added the Wholesale Roanoke Fish & Oyster.
Jim loved God and was full of joy. His laughter was infectious and made everyone around him smile. He made us all want to be like him.
A glad heart makes a happy face. Proverbs 15:13
Left to carry on his legacy are his sons, Paul Scott Parker of Blue Ridge, VA, David Brian Parker (Sally) of Myrtle Beach, SC, daughter, Pamela Parker Webb (David) of Blue Ridge, VA; daughter-in-law, Teresa T. Parker of Advance, NC; grandchildren, Ben Parker, Loren Parker, Krista Westbury (Mitchell), Amanda Burnette (Dustin), Jenny Pressley (Chad), Aaron Parker (Jessica), Jacob Parker, Rachel Parker and Nicholas Webb; great-grandchildren, Ainsley, Paxton and Beckett Burnette, Addie and Kami Pressley, James and Eva Westbury, and Colt Parker; two sisters, Beverly P. Lucas of Troutville, VA and Barbara P. Hurst of Arizona.
A service to honor James’ life will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at New Life Christian Ministries with Pastor Walter L. Wood officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to New Life Christian Ministries, 5745 Airport Road, Roanoke, VA 24012.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.simpsonfuneral.com
