William "Bill" Parker
William "Bill" Burton Parker, 81, of Signal Mountain, Tennessee, passed away on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
He was born February 2, 1944, in Nashville, Tennessee to the late William and Mary Katherine (Wilbur) Parker.
Bill honorably served his country as an officer in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1969. During his distinguished naval service, he served as a destroyer division officer and in critical staff roles supporting Atlantic Fleet operations, demonstrating the leadership and dedication that would define his entire life.
A man of exceptional academic achievement, Bill earned his Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 1966, followed by a Master of Business Administration in Management in 1971, graduating with Beta Gamma Sigma honors. He continued his pursuit of excellence by earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee in 1974, where he received the American Jurisprudence Award in Administrative Law, recognizing his outstanding scholarship.
Bill built a successful legal career in Chattanooga, where he specialized in commercial real estate development, helping shape the business landscape of his community. He later brought his expertise to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee, where he served as corporate counsel, contributing his legal acumen to healthcare accessibility.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was a man of diverse interests and talents. A skilled aviator and instrument rated private pilot, he found joy in the freedom of flight. He was an enthusiast of recreational shooting and possessed a remarkable talent for fixing and building things, a skill that brought him satisfaction and helped countless friends and family members over the years. Perhaps most notably, Bill was driven by an insatiable curiosity that compelled him to continuously learn and grow throughout his 81 years, making him a fascinating conversationalist and a source of knowledge for those around him.
Bill's greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Davis Parker, who was his closest friend and partner in life's adventures; his daughter, Katherine Parker Siskind, who inherited his intellectual curiosity and strength of character; and his son-in-law, Brian Siskind, whom he welcomed as his own son. Bill is also survived by his in-laws Michael Davis, Martha Carty, Karen and Nick Decosimo, Julie and Matt Davis, and Lisa and Scott Brown.
Bill's legacy lives on through his service to country and community, his professional contributions, and most importantly, through the love he shared with his family and the countless lives he touched with his wisdom, generosity, and gentle spirit.
A celebration of life will be held on July 19, 2025, at the family residence from 3-6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Alzheimer's Association.
Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.