Ozzie Parker

Oswald "Ozzie" Parker passed away peacefully at age 78, surrounded by his beloved wife, Gloria, and his niece, Carmen. Born on July 26, 1946, in El Paso, Texas, Ozzie was preceded in death by his cherished parents, Oswald Allen and Teresa Parker, and his sister, Martha Hernandez. He is survived by his wife, Gloria, and his dear pets, Annie, Scotty, Molly, Max, and Wonder, all of whom he loved dearly. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Art Hernandez, his two nephews, David and Adrian Hernandez, and his grand-niece Salem and grand-nephew Dylan, as well as many other beloved family members, including wonderful nieces, nephews, grand-nephews, grand-nieces, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He graduated from Cathedral High School in El Paso in 1964 and later earned a Bachelor of Arts from Culver Stockton College. He also earned a Master's in Procurement and Materials Management from Webster University.

Ozzie was a proud retired Air Force officer who served his country for 24 years. His distinguished career included roles as Chief of Supply/Commander, Staff Logistics Officer, and USAF Exchange Officer to the Venezuelan Air Force, Branch Chief in various logistic organizations, and Air Training Command Instructor. He was selected to help implement President Reagan’s Cold War initiative by activating a base in Belgium, where he commanded a 250-person squadron. He then served as Chief Military Advisor to the Venezuelan Logistics Staff. Ozzie earned meritorious medals from the Venezuelan Air Force and the USAF for outstanding service. He concluded his service overseeing foreign military sales in Central and South America. After retiring from the Air Force, Ozzie and Gloria moved back to San Antonio, Texas, where he continued his service in various management roles within the public and government sectors, focusing on contracts, procurement, and operations.

He shared 57 beautiful years of marriage with his wife, Gloria. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared passions, from traveling and exploring new places to gardening and continually remodeling their home. Their relationship was marked by deep companionship and teamwork, and they always supported each other in their endeavors.

Ozzie will be remembered as a loving husband, loyal friend, and charismatic, joyful person who enjoyed hosting parties and having friends over, especially during the Christmas Holidays. He took great pride in displaying his Christmas village, a tradition that brought him immense joy. Ozzie’s hobbies included playing golf, bike riding, and listening to music; oldies were his favorite. He also loved watching NFL games and was an avid sports fan. Carpentry was another of his passions, and he took great pride in his projects. His last work, crafting wooden American flags, filled him with pride, reflecting his deep patriotism and love for his country.

His lifelong dedication to family, public service, and commitment to his country and community will be remembered and honored by all who knew him.

Services to honor Ozzie’s life will be held on November 6, 2024, at St. Brigid Catholic Church, with a visitation at 8:30 a.m., followed by the rosary at 9:00 a.m. and Mass at 9:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Ft. Sam Houston Cemetery.