Kenneth L. Farquharson

Kenneth Leroy Farquharson - known professionally as Ken Parker, was born to Wesley and Desdie Farquharson on February 23, 1943, in Westmoreland, Jamaica. In 1960, he moved to Kingston in search of a better life. He informed his dad that he was entering the music industry, to which his dad replied, “it would be better for me to see your grave.” Amidst his dad’s protests, he pursued his passion.

Ken had a talent for reimagining existing songs through the lens of reggae and gospel. In 1967, he started writing and recording music, drawing his inspiration from the stories of slaves, as well as a mix of original compositions and popular track covers. Listening to his songs brought peace and solace, creating a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences.

He relocated to England in 1973 after spending 2 years in New York City. Ken continued to perform occasionally, but did not return to recording until the early 1980’s. Just to name a few of his songs, “Keep Your Eyes on Jesus”, “Jimmy Brown”, and “True True.”

A significant milestone in Ken Parker’s musical career was his involvement in the British Reggae Artist’s Famine Appeal Team (BRAFA) in the mid-1980’s. This group raised thousands of pounds for famine relief by recording the charity song Let’s Make Africa Green Again and organizing a benefit concert. Additionally, in 2021, a monument was unveiled in Hackney, England, to honor a group of reggae artists, including Ken Parker.

On May 28th, 1988, Ken married his best friend, Aldith Rose who he so tenderly referred to as “Babes.” He migrated to Florida in December 1991, where he lived with his wife until his passing.

Ken was a beloved son. He was a caring, loving, affectionate husband, confidant, and best friend for the love of his life Rose. For his children, he was a provider, a counselor, and a friend. To his siblings, he was a voice of reason, the clown of the family, and the best cook ever to grace the lives of the Farquharson family. Who can the family find to prepare the best rice and peas, and the ackee and codfish rundown? Ken. For the healthiest juices and natural tonics, he was our go-to.

To the grandchildren, he was the best granddad you could have ever wished for. To the host of nieces, nephews, grand- and great- nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and associates, you were such an inspiration and example to all of us.

He leaves to mourn his passing: his loving wife, Rose; his children – Mark (Tonya), Brenton, Camille (Julian), Michelle, Michael, Sophia (Lorenzo), and Gary (Alida); grandchildren-Katrina, Jillian, Caden, Maya, Malachi, Rhianne (Omar) and Reuel; great grandchildren-Anthony, Alana, and Amari, Khan and Love; brothers-Basil (Marcella), Keith (Hazel), and Michael (Marcia); sisters-Norma and Marian (Basil); sister-in-law-Norma and brother-in-law, Clifton, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

We will miss you Ken, and we can’t understand why God chose to snatch you away from us so quickly, but we won’t question and will continue to trust The Lord because He knows best.

Rest In Peace our beloved. Sleep on, and take your rest. We must go on, but we will meet you in the morning.

Lovingly submitted by your family.