This world lost a great hero on August 20, 2021.
Steven Michael Parker, 52, of Chesapeake, VA/ Nags Head, NC is now at peace in his Heavenly home. God took Steve away from pain and blessed him with eternal life. We know Steve will continue sending love and direction every day to his family, friends and all of MSC. His strong, loving spirit will remain a part of each of us.
Steve was born on February 25, 1969 in Norfolk, VA. He graduated from Churchland High School. He served in the US Air Force for 11 years finishing as a Senior Master Sergeant Airborne Radar Technician (instructor & evaluator) and 4 ½ years in the US Air Force Reserves as the Assistant Section Chief. He was a highly decorated Air Force combat veteran. He earned the Air Force Air Medal with citation for combat flights during Desert Storm. He also earned 3 Aerial Achievement Medals for sustained combat operations in Southwest Asia.
He earned a Bachelor of Science with Distinction in Management (2002) from Park University, a Master of Business Administration from Troy State University (2004), and a Master of Science in Acquisition and Contract Management from Florida State University (2006).
Steve dedicated 33 years to the US government. He was a passionate, caring, highly effective leader. His civilian career included being a US Government Contracting Officer and a Government Real Estate Specialist. His grand finale to the US government was serving as the Deputy Director for N10 (Acquisition and Business Management) at the US Navy’s Military Sealift Command.
Although these achievements were impressive, his greatest accomplishments were being a loving husband for 30 years and an exceptional father for 18. He cherished his time with his family. He always put their needs and desires above all else. He made their “Salty Paradise” dream a reality.
Steve was happiest on the OBX beaches finding sea glass with Stephanie and watching their son, Shawn, surf and skim. Steve truly was and always will be his family’s personal hero.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Stephanie and son, Shawn, parents Steven & Elizabeth Parker, sister Adria Phillips (Ben, L. Ben, Chase), sister-in-laws Christine Mann (Thaddeus), Katherine Willet (Rex & Ryan), in-laws Judith & Gerald Lassiter, John & Faye Meagher, Ken & Katrina Pritchard (Damion & Mack), special friends & relatives: Uncle Skip, Henry Bijak, Beth & Megan Wiggs, Mike White, Brian & Stephanie Gobel, Becky & JD Miles, David & Mitzi Faron, Dave & Michele Luckenbaugh; many other loving aunts, uncles, cousins & friends.
A private celebration of life service will be held at Oman’s Funeral Home in Chesapeake, VA. Reverend Tim Craig will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Beach Food Pantry, 4007 N. Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949.