Blaine Edward Parker

Blaine Edward Parker

March 23, 1946 – December 26, 2024

It is with great sadness that the family of Blaine Edward Parker announces his passing on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at the age of 78.

Blaine was born on March 23, 1946, in Henderson, Kentucky to Marvin and Viva Lee [neé Thomasson] Parker and raised in Evansville, Indiana.  Following high school, he earned an associate’s degree from Vincennes University.

Blaine enlisted in the Regular Army on March 31, 1966, as an Ordinance Supply and Parts Specialist, rising to the rank of Specialist (promotable) in less than three years, including 13 months deployed to the Republic of South Vietnam.  After a brief break in service, Blaine enlisted in the Indiana National Guard on July 5, 1973.  Over the next 35 years, Blaine would serve the State and Nation in various roles, primarily within Human Resources and Personnel.  Blaine was one of the very first service members to achieve the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5 in the United States.  CW5 (Retired) Parker’s final military assignment was as the Senior Reserve Component Personnel Officer for United States Central Command.  His awards and accolades include 3 National Defense Service Medals, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Service Ribbon, 3 Army Achievement Medals, 3 Meritorious Service Medals, and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Blaine served his state and nation for over 40 years, focused on the care and support of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines.  He leaves a lasting legacy of service.

After becoming a grandfather, affectionately known as “Pokey”, and moving to Florida with Nancy, he was not ready to slow down and live the life of a typical retiree.  Instead, Blaine continued to actively serve his community in Clearwater, Florida, as a volunteer Concession Kitchen Manager and Board Member for the Countryside Junior Cougars youth football and cheer organization from 2007 to 2015.  Blaine also enjoyed staying active, being outdoors, boating, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Blaine was known for his jovial spirit and infectious sense of humor.  He had a knack for bringing laughter to any room he entered, brightening the lives of everyone around him with his playful nature.  Whether sharing a funny story, cracking a joke, or simply offering a warm smile, he made every gathering more joyful and memorable.  His ability to find humor in life’s moments, big or small, will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Blaine is preceded in death by his parents and stepson, Brad Adams.

Blaine is survived by his wife of 39 years, Nancy [neé Hert]; daughter-in-law, Maria Adams, wife of the late Brad Adams; grandchildren, Bryce (Taylor) Adams and Audrey Adams; great-grandchildren, Bailey, Brooks, and Blakely Adams.  He is also survived by his sister, Nancie (Bruce) Mosby, and brother, Glenn Parker, all of Evansville, Indiana.

Blaine will be laid to rest on January 23, 2025, at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “Wishes 4 Warriors”; Mailing Address: 10400 W Overland Rd. #421, Boise ID 83709 / 855-W4W-HERO (949-4376).