James Parker

James Varner Parker, 93, of Cape Girardeau died Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018, at Southeast Hospital.

He was born June 27, 1925, in Senath, Missouri, to Jason Franklin and Flossie Marie Varner Parker.

He served in the Army from March 1946 to January 1949, where he served in the 351st Infantry in Italy during World War II. He received a World War II Victory Medal and Army of Occupation Medal.

He was a graduate of Cape Girardeau Central High School in 1942. James attended Southeast Missouri State University and then moved to Phoenix, where he got an Associate Degree in art in 1949 from Arizona State University. He then received a Bachelor's Degree in fine arts at Phoenix Community College and later a Master's of Education from Arizona State University. He continued to teach in Arizona and then moved back to Cape Girardeau, where he taught at Southeast Missouri State University.

Jim retired from Southeast Missouri State University as museum director. He had previously been an artist and managed the Heard Museum of Anthropology and Primitive Arts while living in Phoenix.

He was a member of the Arizona Watercolor Association, Arizona Artists Guild and the Exchange Club. He was an Otto F. Dingeldein Award winner.

Jim had a passion for many varieties of art, especially Native American artifacts. He had a love for supporting students at the university. He was also an avid gardener, as people said his yard was a "work of art." Another art he had was decorating. He decorated many people's houses and weddings.

He was a member of Centenary United Methodist Church.

Survivors include 10 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Madge Rose and Grace Virginia Barr; and a brother, Harold J. Parker.

Per Jim's wishes, a graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Cape County Memorial Park, with the Rev. Dr. Barry Winders officiating.

Memorial contributions may be given to James V. Parker Theatre and Dance Scholarship, c/o Southeast Missouri State University Foundation, One University Plaza, MS 7300, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

Online condolences may be made at fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.