Charles Darrell Parker, age 81, of Vinemont, Alabama, passed away on November 1, 2026.
Darrell was a quiet man by nature, but anyone who watched a basketball game with him knew that quiet could quickly change when he felt the referees weren’t making the right calls. His family will surely remember those moments with a smile.
He enjoyed the simple things in life, including working Sudoku puzzles, hiking, and watching sports on television. He also shared a special love with his wife, Ernestine, for attending Sacred Harp singings. For many years, the two made it a weekly tradition, sharing in the music and fellowship that meant so much to them.
Above all else, Darrell loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He was their biggest supporter and could always be counted on to be there, often the first one to show up, cheering them on in whatever they chose to do. Whether it was a sports game, academics, an activity, or a graduation or wedding his grandchildren knew they could look out into the crowd and find him there. His love and unwavering support were among the greatest gifts he gave them.
Darrell was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Verla Parker; his infant daughter, Catherine Jane Parker; and his daughter-in-love, Christy Binkley Parker.
Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife; his son, Jimmy Parker (Mandy); his daughter, Mary (Danny) Thornton; and his grandchildren, Sarah Perry, Sara (Brandon) Rodgers, Will Parker, Tom Parker, Anastasia Parker, Danica Thornton, and Micah Thornton.
He also leaves behind his beloved great-grandsons, Nathan Yoder, Cooper Rodgers, Lincoln Rodgers, Oliver Rodgers, and Randall Lacks; his brother, Jerry (Phyllis) Parker; his sisters, Margie Trapp and Sandra Hinkle; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Darrell leaves behind a family who loved him dearly and countless memories that will be treasured for years to come. He will be remembered for his quiet nature, his love of family, his dedication to showing up for those he loved, and, of course, his occasional conversations with basketball referees from the comfort of his living room.
Though he may no longer be sitting in the stands cheering on his grandchildren or enjoying a weekly Sacred Harp singing with his wife, his presence will remain in the hearts of all who loved him.
The family will be accepting visitors at their home through the week. If you need directions contact a member of the family. A visitation will begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, November 6, at the home, with a funeral following at 12 p.m. Graveside services to follow at Friendship Methodist Church in the Battleground Community.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to Fasola Sacred Harp Musical Heritage Association, Pam Nunn, Treasurer, 8717 Hallwood Dr, Montgomery, Alabama 36117 or Friends of the Smokies.org, P.O. Box 1660, Kodak, TN 37764.
Cullman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Parker family.
