Ed C. Parker

Edgar Clarence Parker, 78, passed away on October 6, 2025, in Freeville, New York. Born on June 27, 1947, in Homer, New York, Edgar—known to many as Ed—lived a life rooted in hard work, service, and devotion to his family and community.

A graduate of Dryden High School in the Class of 1966, Ed answered the call to serve his country shortly after graduation. He enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably from 1967 to 1969 during the Vietnam War. His time in the military was a defining chapter of his life and one he carried with pride.

Following his military service, Ed returned home and dedicated himself to a variety of roles that reflected his strong work ethic and versatility. He worked on the family farm and Freeville Lumber. He also worked at the Dryden Hardware store for his father-in-law Dewitt “Toad” Perkins. Eventually, Ed joined Farm Services at Cornell University in Harford, New York, where he worked until medically retiring in the 1990s.

Ed joined as a 3rd generation firefighter and was a life member of the W B Strong (Freeville) Fire Company in 1970. He served many roles from officer to board member, as well as many committees and master egg flipper at the pancake breakfasts. He served as chief from 1975 to 1977 when he stepped down to start the Freeville rescue squad with 2 others, becoming one of the first EMTs in the department. He was very proud of his family's service and accomplishments to the Freeville community and history in the department with now five generations serving in Freeville including his grandfather, Fred Parker, his father, Lawrence Parker (deceased), his son Chad (deceased), and son Michael, the current chief, and grandsons Gregory and Anthony Parker.

Ed was also a member of the Free Masons.

Throughout his life, Ed was known as a jack of all trades—a man who could fix just about anything and was always willing to lend a hand. He found joy in camping with his family, hunting with the boys, fishing, family gatherings, bonfires and spending time at home. Above all else, Ed cherished time with his family.

Ed also volunteered as a coach in his children’s sports. He coached baseball, softball and volleyball.

He is survived by his loving wife Virginia Parker of Freeville; son Michael (Catherine) Parker of Freeville; daughters Lori (George) Hines of Freeville and Sherri (Jim) Smith of Groton; daughter-in-law Elizabeth Parker and daughter-in-law Susan Parker; stepchildren Brian Keith of Brooktondale NY, Scott (Tammy) Keith of Cheshire, Connecticut; and Jamie (Shaun) Kline of East Hampton, Connecticut, several Grandchildren (Nathan (Jennifer) Parker, Anthony Parker; Gregory (Monique) Parker, Stephanie Jerram; Cheyenne (Lucas) Devries, Cody Smith, Christie (Eli) Smith; Alisa (Mike), Taylor, Zachary (Nadia), Sara, Daniel, Kaitlyn, Isaac, Samantha, George and Jenna Hines. Great grandchildren, Levi, Annalyn, Kaiden; Brantley; and Bentley. Ed also leaves behind his sister Sandy (Frank) Lilley and Kenny Parker; sister-in-law Amy Jo (Ted) Canfield and sister in law, Cathy Perkins. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Ed had many extra “kids” that he gained through his own kids and coaching. His house was always open for guests to stay.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents Lawrence and Doris Parker; his first wife Deborah (Perkins) Parker with whom he shared many loving years starting as high school sweethearts, married February 15th, 1969 until her passing in 2013; in-laws Dewitt R “Toad” and Twyla (Humphrey) Perkins and Doris (Stevens) Perkins his son Chad A. Parker who passed away earlier this year in April; and two granddaughters Amanda Lynn Parker and Kaitlyn Twyla Parker. Ed is also preceded in death by his brother, Gary Parker and brothers in law, Dave Perkins and Ernest Perkins.

Ed also shared a special bond with his and Deborah’s Pomeranian, Annabelle. Annabelle was a very close companion to Deborah while courageously battling cancer and supporting Ed after.

Ed’s legacy lives on through those who knew him—as a veteran who served with honor, a hardworking man who never shied away from a task, 55-year life member of the Freeville FD and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great Grandfather and friend.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. Calling hours will be held on October 19, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Perkins Funeral Home 55 West Main St. Calling hours will be followed by a service. Military honors and burial will be scheduled for a later date.

Donations can be made to the Dryden Verteran’s Home (“Soda club” to his grandkids). Donations can also be made to Hospice that provided so much to Ed and family. A special thank you to his nurses Marci and John. They were amazing and supportive and provided remarkable care.