About

James Carl Parker was born on December 24, 1946 in Oakland, California to Hester Mae Parker and James Robert Parker.

He was the fourth of nine children, a beloved brother among five sisters and three brothers whose warmth and spirit touched everyone who knew him. From his early childhood at Santa Fe Elementary and Woodrow Wilson Junior High, to his graduation from Oakland Technical High School in the class of 1965.

James was known for his sharp mind, quiet strength and deep sense of responsibility. Shortly after high school, he answered teh call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Arma and courageously completing a tour of duty in Vietnam. Upon returning home, James embraced a path of spiritual growth, becoming a devoted member of the Nation of Islam.

Several years later he met and married the love of his life, Shirley Neal. Together they built a beautiful family - welcoming Shirley’s daughter Erika and later celebrating the birth of their daughter Amirah.

Jaames was a man of great depth and quiet passion. He had a profound love for jazz; the pages of a good book and the timeless stories told through film. Above all, James cherished family. He was a steadfast son, a loyal brother, a loving husband, father and grandfather and a true friend to many.

He presence brought peace, his laughter brought light, and his wisdom left a lasting imprint on those who had the priviledge of knowing him.

He is lovingly rermembered and deeply missed by his two daughters: Erika Dasent & Amirah Parker. Three grandchildren: Aaron Dasent-Kay, Leia & Cirah Kay. Three sisters, three brothers, four sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and lifelong friends. Though he has departed this life, James’ legacy of love, courage and integrity lives on in each of us.