Walter “Sonny” Francis Parker

In Loving Memory

Walter “Sonny” Francis Parker
July 23, 1939 – May 12, 2025
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”, Matthew 25:21

Walter “Sonny” Francis Parker, age 85, passed away peacefully at his home in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, on Monday, May 12, 2025.

Born on July 23, 1939, to Walter Eric Parker and Nancy Orie Parker, Sonny was a proud American and a devoted family man. He married his lifelong sweetheart, Mary Joyce Parker, on June 14, 1964, in Anniston, Alabama; a union marked by love, faithfulness, and enduring partnership.

Sonny served his country honorably in the United States Navy. Following his time in the military, he continued to serve for over thirty years as a military contractor, contributing to national defense with pride and professionalism. He also volunteered with the Florida Highway Patrol Auxiliary, embodying his lifelong commitment to service.

He had a deep love for his family, a passion for Alabama Crimson Tide football, and a special fondness for fishing with his close friend, Larry. Sonny’s legacy is one of quiet strength, kindness, integrity, and devotion to those he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife of sixty years, Mary Joyce Parker; his children: Keith Parker (partner, Lisa House), Kevin Parker, and Kimberly Bolduc (Tim Bolduc); his grandchildren: Brittany Hancock (Tyler Hancock) and Leah Legions (Patrick Legions); and his great grandchildren: Parker Legions and Adline Hancock.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Eric Parker and Nancy Orie Parker.

Services will be held Thursday, May 15, 2025 at Davis Watkins Funeral Home on Racetrack Road in Fort Walton Beach. The visitation begins at 10:00 a.m., while the funeral will commence at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be held immediately following at Heritage Gardens Cemetery. 

A Life Remembered

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the memories, the laughter, the lessons, and the love Sonny gave so freely. His was a life of service and quiet dignity—a life that touched many and will not be forgotten.