Samuel "Sam" Parker, born on Independence Day in 1942, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 16, 2025, at the age of 83. A devoted and loving husband to Wilma Parker, Sam Parker was the heartbeat of his family—steadfast, kind, and always ready with a dry, perfectly timed sense of humor. Sam was the ultimate gentleman, and he and Wilma shared a very special marriage—a partnership marked by tenderness, laughter, and unwavering devotion. He was sentimental and had a huge heart—unafraid to show his emotion during a meaningful movie or song—and his warmth set the tone for a home filled with love.

Sam is the adoring father of Tammy (Gary) Hurd and Lisa (Chip) Keith, and the doting grandfather of Sam, Laura, Ashley (Dustin), Sean, Melissa (Ryan). He delighted in becoming a great‑grandfather to Joanna, Destiny, Jack, Ben, Lorenzo, and Alana. He was also a tightknit brother to James (Joan), and a loving uncle to multiple nieces and nephews. His family was his greatest joy, and he was their dependable compass—encouraging and endlessly generous with his time and talents.

A talented machine repairman, Sam dedicated more than 40 years to Ford Motor Company, where his craftsmanship, work ethic, and problem‑solving mindset earned the respect of colleagues and friends. Beyond his career, Sam was the neighborhood’s trusted helper—the go‑to neighbor for challenging projects or a borrowed tool—always willing to stop and lend a hand to anyone in need.

Sam’s interests painted a life rich with curiosity, fun, and adventure. He tended a beautiful garden and kept the best lawn on the block. He cheered—win or lose—for the Cincinnati Reds and Cincinnati Bengals, enjoyed a friendly game of poker, loved a round of golf, and said yes to travel whenever he could. Even at 83, Sam embraced new experiences, trying indoor skydiving just five years ago. He proudly earned a brown belt in karate, and he shared in Wilma’s life work with cocker spaniels, finding purpose and companionship in that passion. Family and friends will forever remember his generous and grand Fourth of July fireworks celebrations—a joyful tradition perfectly suited to a man born on Independence Day.

Sam is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Mabel Parker, brother James, and daughter Lisa. Sam’s legacy is found in the family he nurtured, the neighbors he encouraged, the colleagues he inspired, and the countless acts of quiet kindness he offered along the way. His steady presence and gentle humor will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Please join Wilma and their family and friends for a celebration of life. Please see details below. Instead of flowers, Wilma requests that donations be made in Sam’s name to the American Spaniel Club Foundation, honoring his life and legacy and the love of Cockers they shared. Alternatively, donations can be made to Crossroads Church, as Sam believed wholeheartedly in God’s word and in the power of His church to change lives on this side of eternity. Links for online donation are below.

Celebration of Life

Please join Sam’s family in celebrating his life on January 24, 2026 at the Crossroads Church chapel in Oakley.

Address: 3500 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45209

Visiting hour: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon

Celebration of Life service: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

Please park in the East parking lot and enter through the chapel entrance.

In Lieu of Flowers

• American Spaniel Club Foundation: https://asc-f.org/donation-online-form/

• Crossroads Church: https://www.crossroads.net/giving/

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