Community Mourns Loss Of Street, Airport Commissioner

The Sullivan community is mourning the loss of Billy Parker, Jr., who passed away Sunday, May 12.

Parker, 43, served as the city’s street commissioner and airport commissioner. 

Parker would have celebrated his 44th birthday the next day.

Sullivan Firefighters and Missouri Baptist Ambulance were called to Farris Road Spur, off Highway FF, for a report of a tree that had fallen on a male victim at 10:28 a.m.

First responders arrived and determined that Parker had passed from his injuries.

Parker was a former member of the Sullivan Fire District. 

He was hired by the city of Sullivan on January 20, 2007 as a member of the street department before taking over the position of commissioner following the retirement of Larry Cuneio in October 2018. He served until for the city until his passing.

“It is with profound sadness that we have lost a valued member of our city family,” said Mayor Dennis Watz on May 13. “My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

Parker never met a stranger and was very respected within his community for not only his work ethic and leading in his duties but for his kindness and sense of humor.

Sullivan City Administrator J.T. Hardy, who worked with Parker on a daily basis said, “As a city administrator, the loss of our Street Commissioner is not only a professional blow but also a deep personal sorrow. Billy was not only dedicated to his duty, ensuring the safety and functionality of our city’s street and airport, but also a dear friend whose kindness, and unwavering support will be profoundly missed. His passing leaves a void in our hearts and our community that will be hard to fill. We will honor his memory by continuing his legacy of service and commitment to the well-being of our city.”

Parker is survived by his wife, Nickie; his children, Chelsi and Dylan; his father, Bill Parker, Sr. and mother, Sheila Barron; and sister, Heather.

Services were Saturday, May 18.

A version of this article that ran in the May 15 issue of the Independent News incorrectly stated that Parker was 44 and would be 45.