Charlie "Poepoe" Manuel Parra

Charlie Manuel “Poe Poe” Parra entered into the loving arms of our Lord on August 15, 2023 at the tender age of 67. He was born on December 30, 1955 in Alice, Texas to Librada Mireles and Manuel Parra.

Charlie graduated from John Jay High School in 1975. Shortly after graduating, Charlie entered the United States Air Force. He proudly served for 12 years until his honorable discharge in February of 1988. He achieved the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon and the Good Conduct Medal during his two overseas tours. After his discharge, he worked as a Security Flight Chief Supervisor for the Air Force. He later transitioned to a corrections officer at Wackenhut Detention Facility. Afterwards, he went to work with his sister, Debra, at Bausch & Lomb. He then found his new passion when becoming a bus driver for Southwest Independent School District, where many of the children loved Charlie. He would share silly stories with the kids, and would often joke with them that he was the bionic man, or an alien host. Most of all Charlie loved his family. He loved spending time with his daughters, proud of all their accomplishments. Of their accomplishments his proudest was his grandchildren. Becoming “Poe Poe” was his most treasured job.

Charlie was passionate about tinkering. He loved to break down radios, cars and other machines near him. He enjoyed two-way radios and racing cars, often with his brother Steve. He volunteered with the Little Church of La Villita, and Southwest Bexar County Volunteer Fire Department. Charlie was also a man of faith, serving as a Deacon at Marbach Christian Church.

Charlie will be reunited in heaven with his parents, Librada and Manuel Parra; brother Manuel Parra Jr.; sister Debra Parra; son Joseph Manuel; and nephew, Erik.

His memory will forever live in girls Renae Allen (Ismael), Maritza “Missy” Perez (David), and Rebekah Parra (Paul); “Love of His Life,” Mary Beth Carpenter; grandchildren, Anthony, Isaiah, Samantha, Cailee, Olivia, Elaina, and Paul Richard Manuel. Brothers Steve Parra (Michele), James Parra (Kat) and Robert Parra; and sister-in-law Gloria. Nieces Melissa, Melinda, Stephanie, Ashley, Amber, Sarah, Ciarra, and Brandy; nephews, David, Stephen, and Isaak; and numerous extended family.