James Dale Parker

James Dale Parker, 81, of Whitestown, Indiana, formerly of Henderson and Murray, Kentucky, passed away at 2:33 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Born on July 17, 1944, in Kirksey, Kentucky, to the late James A. and Madeline Parker, Dale dedicated his life to service, family, and faith. He served with the Kentucky State Police for 29 years, embodying integrity and commitment throughout his career. Following his retirement from law enforcement, he continued serving others as an agent with Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society.
Dale was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves, retiring as a First Sergeant after 21 years of service. He remained deeply connected to his faith throughout his life and worshipped at Zionsville United Methodist Church in Zionsville, Indiana; Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Henderson, Kentucky; and Goshen United Methodist Church in Murray, Kentucky.
Known for his gentle spirit and generous heart, Dale found joy in fishing and never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren’s activities. His calm, “gentle giant” presence and steady counsel made him someone others naturally leaned on. Guided by a deep and enduring faith, he lived with humility and quiet strength, shaping the way he loved and protected his family as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His easy humor, patience, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Dale is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Donna Son Parker, of Whitestown, Indiana; his daughters, Jennifer King of Henderson, Kentucky, Jamie Parker-Smith (Shannon) of Gulf Breeze, Florida, and Dana Stelsel (David) of Zionsville, Indiana; and his seven grandchildren, Jackson, Cooper, Braden, Ford, Emmajane, Mae, and Grayson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Gene Parker; his sister, Shelby Suiter; and his former wife, Helen Jane Vowels.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Chapel Hill Church in Henderson, Kentucky. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. CT, with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. CT.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in the form of memorial contributions to Trooper Island Inc. (https://www.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/trooper-island).
Online condolences may be made at www.jhchurchill.com