Maurice Alexander Parker, Sr., the son of Leonard and Carrie Lee Parker was born on November 18, 1945 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He received his elementary education in Parker Heights and graduated from Dunjee High School. Maurice later joined the military where he discovered his love of aviation in the United States Air Force.
Maurice had an ambitious spirit. He simultaneously juggled being a mediator, private investigator and law school. He enjoyed practicing labor law and employment with his sister Alfreda Gaither in Connecticut, debating African American history with his brother Stanley Smith and comparing football players and teams with his nephew Steven Parker.
Maurice served in many capacities during his lifetime, from a seat on the Board of Directors at Mesa Airlines, Air Traffic Controller, National Mediation Board, and Attorney to name a few. But there was none as great as his role as a husband, brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, cousin, mentor and friend.
Maurice was united in marriage to Annie Mae Parker. To this union two children were born. Later he met and married Samalla McClellan.
Maurice departed this life on Sunday October 9, 2022. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Annie Mae, parents, four brothers, Leonard, Kermit, Charles, Lloyd Jean, and sister Wilma.
He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife, Samalla; his daughter Toni (sons Todd, Dexter), Alex (wife Gina, son Maurice III, daughters Ariana, Liza Mae, Victoria); brother Stanley Smith (wife Jennifer, daughter Dahia, son Cinque); sister Alfreda Gaither (husband Arthur); brother in law Clenell Carter (wife Patricia, sons Clem, Chris, daughter Felicia) nephew Steven (wife Francine, sons Steven II, K'bri, daughter London); and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
**A special acknowledgment to Sherry Jackson for reminding Maurice everyday was his birthday.**
The Parker family wishes to convey their most sincere gratitude to the elite team of doctors, nurses and aides from the Veterans Administration, Methodist Hospital, MD Anderson, Encompass, Star of Texas Hospice, Total Home Healthcare, Eyes of Hope, Aegis Senior Care, and all the men and women that worked behind the scenes. We thank you 🙏🏾
