Gene Allen Parker

On Friday, May 8, 2020, Gene Allen Parker, loving husband and father of six children passed away at age 78. Gene was born the youngest of two children on December 14, 1941 in Fayetteville, Ark. to Virgil and Lula (Head) Parker. Gene was raised in Springdale, Arkansas where he attended Springdale schools and sacrificed completing his high school education to begin working to support the family. Gene was a self-made man who became a truck driver and traveled the country for over 40 years. He became known by hundreds of fellow drivers and friends as "Effy" and "Hog Caller." Over his career he drove for Steele Canning Company, Jones Truck Lines, Yellow and finished his career with ABF. Gene never met a stranger and loved to hear people's stories and share with others about his kids and grandkids. He had a kind and compassionate spirit and always had a hug waiting for anyone who would take it. He loved a good chew and chocolate milk. Gene was baptized at the First Christian Church in Springdale, Ark. Gene married Lucy Evelyne Drummond on October 25, 1991. During their 28 years of marriage they enjoyed time with their family and friends and were always ready for a trip to the casino. Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Joann Jung; his son-in-law, Rick Reedy; a niece, Karen Hurbrough; and a nephew, Mike Jung. Left to celebrate his life is his wife, Evelyne; and beloved children: Jason Parker (Casey) of Springdale, Arkansas, Jeremy Parker (April) of Harrison, Arkansas, Josh Parker of Mount Vernon, Ohio, Karla Reedy of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Glenn Marston (Della) of Sallisaw, Oklahoma and Julie Marston Roark of Springdale, Arkansas; 15 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of friends. You may visit Gene Parker at Beard's Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 from 4:30-7 p.m. The family will greet friends during that time. A graveside celebration of life is planned for Thursday May, 14, 2020 at 2 p.m. at Bidville Cemetery in Bidville, Ark. Honorary pallbearers are Donnie Lee, Jerry Reed, Larry Savage, Ron Ferguson, Dudley Holmes, Ron Roles, Jim Burnett, Carl Holman, Bill Lane, Utah McClockin, Teddy Drummond, Joey Farriester, Glenn Marston and Houston Casey. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.