Edward Franklin Parton

A proud United States Marine and veteran of the Korean War, Ed carried the honor, discipline, and quiet resilience of his service with him throughout his life. Though he served for three years, being a Marine was never simply something he did, it was part of the character he embodied every day thereafter.

After returning home, he devoted many years to serving his community as a probation officer, where he earned the respect of those around him through fairness, compassion, and integrity. He believed deeply in treating people with dignity and always sought to lead with steadiness rather than authority.

But beyond his accomplishments was the man his family knew and loved most.

He was strong and stubborn in the ways that mattered, yet deeply thoughtful and kind. Edward carried himself with a quiet wisdom and humility, intentional in his words, steadfast in his love, and always willing to meet others halfway. He frequently referred to himself as the "luckiest man to ever live" and embraced each chapter of his life as a gift. His character reflected the kind of virtue people spend a lifetime building. His perspective shaped not only the way he lived, but the way he loved those around him.

Above all else, he was devoted to his family and to his late wife and best friend of 60 years, Blanche Parton. While his passing leaves an immeasurable ache here, there is comfort in imagining him reunited with her once again.

Edward is survived by his beloved son, Brian, daughter-in-law, Lisa, and his cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Taylor-Marie, and Randi Lea. The lessons he taught about resilience, gratitude, integrity, and love will continue to live on through all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Though our hearts are broken, we remain endlessly grateful for the gift of his life. To know him was to love him, and to be loved by him was one of life’s greatest blessings. Donations to the Wounded Warrior Foundation are requested in lieu of flowers.