Jimmie Dean Parkinson

September 14, 1932 – November 4, 2025

Jimmie Dean Parkinson, Master Chief, U.S. Navy (Retired), passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, in Collierville, Tennessee. He was 93 years old.

Mr. Parkinson was born on September 14, 1932, in Centralia, Illinois, to Wallace and Louise Parkinson. He graduated from Memphis State University with both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Mr. Parkinson honorably served in the United States Navy for more than 23 years, from November 1952 until his retirement in May 1975 as an Aviation Master Chief (AVCM). During his distinguished military career, he made multiple deployments aboard the USS Kearsarge, USS Enterprise, USS America, and USS Constellation during the Vietnam War.

His commendations include the Navy Unit Commendation, the Vietnam Service Medal with device, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Navy Good Conduct Award (five times), and the National Defense Service Medal.

Following his military service, Mr. Parkinson continued to serve his country as an Education Specialist at the Naval Air Station Memphis for 15 years.

Mr. Parkinson is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Jo Ann Kivelle Parkinson, along with extended family and friends who will miss him dearly. He was proud of his family and grateful for the relationships that shaped his life.

A graveside service will be held at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery in Collierville, Tennessee, on November 14, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sycamore Collective, 875 W. Poplar Ave., Ste. 23, #129, Collierville, TN 38017.