Mr. Joe B. Parker, age 80, a lifelong resident of Covington passed away October 8, 2013 at Newton Medical Center.  He was born August 25, 1933 to the late Lester and Leola Fincher Parker.  Mr. Parker worked for Bibb Manufacturing, Cawthon Brothers Gas and retired from Harold’s Propane where he was known throughout the community by his truck “Big Joe”.  After retiring Mr. Parker worked part-time for Benton Welding Supply.  A loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, Mr. Parker was well known for sitting outside under his oak tree and waving at friends he had known for years and those that he had yet to meet.  He was an Atlanta Braves fan; he enjoyed playing baseball in his younger years and enjoyed fishing.  A lifelong member of the Stewart community Mr. Parker was a founding member of Stewart Community Church.

He is a survived by his wife Elizabeth Parker, their children Debbie Gober of Covington, Scott and Kerry Parker of Covington and Deann and Scott Cummings of Monticello, his brother and sister-in-law, Boyce and Maxine Parker of Covington and his sister Trellis Gunnells of Covington, his grandchildren: Kinsey Gober, Drew Parker, ScottiAnn Cummings, Dillon Parker, and Gracie Cummings along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family and a host of friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Parker will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 11, 2013 at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell and Son with Pastor Jason Johnson and Mr. Andy Parker officiating.  Interment will follow at Lawnwood Memorial Park.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, October 10, 2013.  Those desiring may make contributions to the Stewart Community Church Building Fund, 245 Campbell Road, Covington, GA 30014.  J.C. Harwell & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Chapel, 2157 East Street S.E., Covington, GA 30014 is in charge of arrangements. A guest book may be signed on-line at www.harwellfuneralhome.com