James E. Parkhill, Jr., of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the age of 80. His early years set the stage for a life rich with dedication, service, and the love of his close-knit family.
James was born on Monday, February 19, 1945, to James and Frances Parkhill. James graduated from Paducah Tilghman High School, where he met the love of his life, to whom he was married for 51 years. He carved out a respectable career spanning 35 years at the Tennessee Valley Authority's Shawnee Power Plant, where he was esteemed for his aptitude in management and unwavering work ethic. His commitment to his profession was paralleled by his dedication to his community, where he was a staunch volunteer with the Paducah Auxiliary Police and the Department of Emergency Services. His contributions to these organizations were a testament to his steadfast resolve to make a difference and keep his beloved community safe.
In quieter moments, James found solace and strength in his faith, attending Lone Oak First Baptist Church. There, he found a spiritual family and a source of comfort that remained with him throughout his life. James's unwavering faith was a cornerstone of his character, often inspiring those around him with his grace and resilience.
Above all, James's greatest joy was found in the laughter and love of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called him Daddaddy, whom he adored with every fiber of his being. He cherished every moment spent with them, from teaching life's invaluable lessons to simply reveling in their youthful exuberance. These shared memories became the treasured legacy he leaves behind, an enduring testament to the depth of his love as a grandfather.
James E. Parkhill, Jr.'s departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy of integrity, devotion, and familial love endures. As we remember this remarkable man, let us celebrate the life he lived so well, the communities he bolstered with his service, and the family he so deeply cherished. James's memory will be held dear, serving as an inspiring beacon of what it means to live a life of purpose and compassion.
James was preceded in death by his loving wife of 51 years, Dianna Lynn (Pryor) Parkhill. Also preceding him in death are his parents, James E Parkhill, Sr, and Frances (Williams) Parkhill, and his sister Paula Herrington.
Mr. Parkhill is survived by his daughters, Tracy Smith (Jeff), and Christy Parkhill, all of Paducah; his brother, Larry Dean Parkhill (Lana) of Arizona; his cousin Steve Fellows (Sandy) of Paducah whom he loved as a brother; his grandchildren, Dara Tubbs, Devyn Martin(Ross), Alexa Griffin(Zach), Jason Smith(Chelsey), Chandler McGowan, Taylor Fondaw, and Clayton Smith(Kathy); his great grandchildren, Emma, Addison, Landon, Lane, Levi, Ella, Ayden, Matti, Avery, Mallie, and Macie.
Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 P.M. Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home, with Christy Parkhill and Jason Smith officiating.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M., Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Lone Oak Chapel.
Entombment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Serving as Pallbearers will be: Landon Smith, Jason Smith, Clayton Smith, Ross Martin, Pat Stephson, and Mitchell Stephenson. Honorary Pallbearers will be Charlie Brown, Steve Fellows, and the late Mark Mahan.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy, 6075 Clinton Rd, Paducah, KY 42001.
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