LACEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre expressed their deep condolences following the passing of John C. Parker, the Chairman of the Ocean County Utilities Authority and former Mayor of Lacey Township. Parker, a long-serving public servant, was remembered for his profound impact on the community and his unwavering commitment to those he represented.
“Today, we lost a tremendous individual who earned the respect of so many people he interacted with during his decades of dedicated public service,” the lawmakers said in a joint statement. They emphasized Parker’s extensive knowledge and wisdom, which he consistently applied in his efforts to serve the community effectively.
Known for his tenacity and straightforward approach, Parker was praised for his relentless advocacy on behalf of his constituents. “To say the least, John was tenacious when advocating on behalf of his constituents and had an enviable reputation for never mincing words or wasting time when an issue needed to be addressed,” the statement continued.
The lawmakers also reflected on the personal relationships they had with Parker, valuing his friendship, support, and the sound advice he often provided. “John’s sound advice was always welcomed and, true to his character, he was always there when you needed him, regardless of the situation.”
As they mourn his passing, Amato, Rumpf, and Myhre extended their heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Parker’s family, friends, and colleagues. “While John will certainly be sorely missed, we take comfort in the fact that he lived a long, full and distinguished life,” they concluded.
John C. Parker, a lifelong resident of Forked River and a prominent figure in Ocean County’s history and public service, passed away on August 22, 2024, at Southern Ocean Medical Center. He was 88 years old.
Born on February 28, 1936, to Blanche and James L. Parker, John was deeply rooted in the community. His family, one of the oldest Republican families in Ocean County, has maintained a legacy of public service and political involvement since 1861. John’s father, James L. Parker, was the first President of the Lacey Township Republican Club, establishing a tradition of civic engagement that John would carry forward.
John Parker’s early years were marked by academic and athletic excellence. After attending a local two-room schoolhouse, he went on to the Toms River School District, where he served as President of his senior class and Captain of the football team. He excelled in multiple sports, participating in championship teams across football, baseball, basketball, flag football, and softball. John later attended the University of Maryland from 1954 to 1958, where he further honed his leadership skills. It was during this time that he met and married Ruth Scully, with whom he raised three children.
John Parker’s dedication to his community was evident in his extensive public service career. He was instrumental in establishing the Lacey Township Police Department and served as President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #10. His leadership was key in bringing the Nuclear Power Plant to Lacey, a significant development for the town. Parker served as Mayor of Lacey Township six times, leaving an indelible mark on the community. His deep appreciation for local history earned him recognition as the first Lacey Township Historian by resolution, and he was a long-time member of both the Ocean County and Lacey Township Historical Societies.
For over four decades, Parker served as Chairman of the Ocean County Utilities Authority, and for 25 years, he was a member of the Ocean County Finance Team. He also held leadership roles in various organizations, including President of Good Luck Cemetery and board director positions at the 1st National Bank of Toms River and Citizens State Bank.
John Parker was also a successful entrepreneur, leading several business ventures in real estate and construction. He served as President of Parker Associates, South Jersey Oil Company, K-C Constructors Inc., Atlantic Gravel Company, and Rig & Crane Inc., with operations extending from New Jersey to Texas and Pennsylvania.
Parker was known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his adventurous spirit, enjoying big game expeditions to Montana. He will be remembered by many as a dedicated family man, a reliable friend, a determined leader, and a figure of strength in the community.
John was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Ruth I. Parker, his sister, Betty Jean Miller, and his son-in-law, Richard Anderson. He is survived by his son, Casey Parker, and his wife Lori; his daughters Cindy Anderson and Tammy Russell, and her husband Timothy; seven grandchildren, Ashley Smida (Jason), Courtney Laird (Kyle), Shelby Gardner (Michael), Kendell Russell, Cally Russell, Jason Parker, and Andrew Anderson (Lauren); and three great-grandchildren, Oliver, Ruby, and Colter.
John C. Parker’s legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to his community will be cherished by all who knew him. His life stands as a testament to the enduring impact of dedicated public service and community involvement.
