Bruce Edwin Parker

1938 — 2025

At rest at Illinois Chapel Cemetery

Obituary

Bruce Edwin Parker passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, at the age of 86. He was born on May 26, 1938, in Seminole, Oklahoma to Opal Epperson and Henry Earl Parker.

Bruce enjoyed a long and successful career with Arbor Acres Farm, which took him to many places, domestically and abroad before he retired as Executive Vice President of Arbor Acres and President of Ibec Aquaculture Corporation.

An avid outdoorsman, Bruce found great joy in hunting and fishing. He made yearly treks into the backcountry and wilderness areas of the West, cherishing the adventures and friendships forged on those trips. His stories, full of fond memories, reflected his deep love for the outdoors.

Bruce was preceded in death by his wife, Nettie Jean Parker. He is survived by his daughters, Tracy Parker and her husband, Stephen Smith, and Terri Parker; as well as four grandchildren—Eloise Smith and her husband, Casey Morey, Madeline Sharon, Ben Sharon, and Anna Sharon—who will always hold his memory close to their hearts.

Bruce's legacy of adventure, friendship, and love for his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Photographs

A Life in Pictures

Tributes

Memories & Condolences · 6

Bruce Parker· same nameMar 4, 2026

What originally brought me here was discovering that we share the exact same name. My birth name is also Bruce Parker.

I did not personally know Bruce, but from what I have read, he seemed like a very kind, humble, and intelligent man. It’s clear that he represented the name Bruce Parker well.

Reading about him reminded me that a name can carry a legacy through the way a person lives their life. I hope that in my own way, I can honor that name just as well.

Bruce is in a better place now. May he rest in peace.

Bristol, PA

Ray Stidham· FriendFeb 19, 2025

Mr Bruce was one fine man!! I only knew him for a few

Years but he welcomed me in as he knew me forever!! I enjoyed sitting on the front porch of the Floss cabin and listening to his stories and paying attention to grab a nugget of knowledge that he had!

Ray Stidham

Patti Cline· Friends through my MotherFeb 13, 2025

Bruce was one of the kindest souls I have ever met. He always assisted my Mother, Norma Jean Cline, at all the graduate dinners each month with her walker and made sure she got back in her vehicle and safely home. I have attended many of these dinners since my Mother's passing and he always had a hug and bought my lunch! Just as he did with Mother. I will miss his smiling face and him always asking me, "How are you kiddo?" My deepest sympathies to the family and to Nell, whom is also one of the kindest people you will meet.

Huntsville, AR

Renea· Lake friendFeb 11, 2025

Bruce was a very nice man and I’m glad I had the opportunity to meet him. He was exceptionally smart and loved his dear Nell and his grand kids. I am sorry to hear of his passing but am rejoicing that he is whole in his forever home. Condolences to Nell and his family.

Jay, OK

Joe Stansell· High School Classmate and FriendFeb 11, 2025

Bruce and I played football, boxed, hunted deer and took vacations with he and Nell. I will miss talking with my Arkansas Football buddy!

Jay, OK

Karen Stewart· FriendFeb 11, 2025

I was so sad hearing of Bruce’s death. He was the sweetest man. I cleaned his house for 14 years while working a full time job. I started when Jean was sick & stayed to help Bruce after she passed. I cared for his in-laws for years along with my Sister & Mother. We worked different shifts and filled in for each other as needed. It was a fun job. We would sing and dance and laugh. Such a lovely family. I’m sorry for this loss to his daughters and grandchildren. Sorry for Nell who has been there for him over many years and I know she will miss him deeply. Love y’all and my prayers are for blessings, memories & a beautiful family legacy to always be I your hearts. RIP to one of the greatest men that ever lived.

PrairieGrove, AR