Charles Willis Parker

Charles Willis Parker (92) of Washington, DC January 6, 1932 – March 16, 2024 On Saturday, March 16, 2024, Charles Willis Parker, affectionately known as “Charlie”, transitioned to eternal life at Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He was born on January 6, 1932, the middle child in a family of three boys, to the late Haywood L. and Frances W. Parker in Washington, DC. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter Vanessa C., and brothers, Haywood L. and Daniel A. Charles was educated in the Washington, DC public school system. He attended Phelps Vocational High School and graduated in the class of 1950. One month later, he joined the United States Airforce where he served as an Airplane Mechanic during the Korean War. Charles was honorably discharged as an Airman 3rd Class in 1953. In November 1954, he married Delores Catherine Barton and from this union were born Vanessa C., Charles W., Jr., and Gail F. Charles worked for many years as a graphic artist, first with Jands, Inc. in Silver Spring, MD, then launching his own graphic design company in the 1980s. In addition to having his own graphic design business, Charles was a self-employed taxicab driver in the Washington Metropolitan area for over 60 years. He loved fishing, crabbing, boating, bowling, and especially enjoyed watching the Washington Commanders (aka Washington Redskins). Charles was known for lending a helping hand to his friends and neighbors. At his senior adult apartment building, he served as the resident “chauffeur” and looked out for several friends who had fallen sick there. He was also the father and grandfather figure to many including Carol, Keaton, and Sherletta to name a few. He is survived by his companion of over 20 years Antoinette “Cookie” Green; three children, Charles W. Parker, Jr. (Michele), Gail F. Carter (Emmanuel), and Thomas Parker; grandchildren, Charles W. Parker, III (Vannetta), Tyrone Parker (Chelsea), and Marjani E. Carter; great-grandchildren Charlize, Naomi, and Jessie; nephews Timothy Parker, William Parker, and Daniel Parker, Jr.; niece Denise, and a host of other relatives and friends. His viewing will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at Harvest Assembly Baptist Church, 8008 Fordson Road, Alexandria, VA 22306. Interment will be held at 1:00 p.m. at Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Road, Triangle, VA 22172. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Charles Willis Parker, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Charles Willis Parker

January 6, 1932 - March 16, 2024