John Henry Parker, 69 of Laurel, Maryland entered into eternal rest peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2014 at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, Maryland.

John Henry was born on August 4, 1944 in Caroline County, Virginia to the late Earl Chew, Sr. and Blanche Marie Parker. John Henry was raised by his devoted uncle and aunt, the late Elvin and Birdie Chew in Spotsylvania, Virginia.

He attended public schools in Spotsylvania County.

He received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and joined the Beulah Baptist Church.

John Henry was employed by Clark Construction Company in Bethesda, Maryland until his health failed. He was a dedicated and professional worker, never missing a day from work even during his medical treatments. John Henry worked in the construction field for over 40 years. He was truly a loyal worker and an asset to his employers.

John Henry loved his Dallas Cowboys Football Team. In earlier years, he enjoyed watching wrestling and taking his former father-in-law, uncle, his children and nephew to various wrestling matches in Richmond, Virginia and surrounding counties. He also enjoyed going to the race track and had a special love for his cars. John Henry supported various types of mission ministries with monetary gifts, food and clothing. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Jerome Chew and sister, Flossie Walker.

John Henry leaves to cherish his memories, two daughters, Grenda Parker and Cheryl Parker of Ashland, Virginia; four grandchildren, Nekia Parker, Jahwan Baylor, Akeena' Parker and Keyarnia Toliver; three great-grandchildren, Taylor, Raegan and King; two sisters, Dorothy Stratton (Roger) and Margaret Tellington (Robert); four brothers, Earl Jr. (Michelle), Ricky, Harry and Leroy; one step-sister, Delores Taylor-Robinson; many devoted cousins, a special cousin and friend, Ed "Dee" Chew (Carolyn), and a host of nieces, nephews, special friends, and a devoted friend (Addie Robb).

Visitation: Sunday, February 23, 2014, 12 Noon to 8 PM at C. W. Edwards Funeral Home.

Celebration of Life Service: Monday, February 24, 2014 at 11:00 AM, Beulah Baptist Church, 5216 Arcadia Road, Woodford, Va., 22580

Interment: Church Cemetery

Eulogist: Rev. Otis L. Kay, Sr.

Officiant: Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Young

A. Stevie Adams, Funeral Service Provider