James Reynolds Parker's Obituary
James Reynolds Parker, age 73, of Memphis, Tennessee passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, July 20, 2025 surrounded by the people he loved most.
Jim was born August 4, 1951, in Jackson, Tennessee, to the late James Wyatt and Billie Reynolds Parker. Jim, or “Jim Damnit,” as his wife affectionately joked, was known for his quick wit, sharp mind, and generous heart. He graduated from the University of Memphis with a degree in business and later earned a master’s degree in finance.
In 1978, Jim began what would become a remarkable 40-year career at FedEx, a company he admired and deeply believed in. Early on, Fred Smith recognized Jim’s potential as he served as Director of Finance supporting FedEx Air Operations. Mr. Smith chose him for the pivotal role of Vice President of Aircraft Acquisition and Sales. Jim would eventually become Executive Vice President of FedEx Air Operations. In this role, he led the largest cargo airline in the world. Jim proved more than worthy of the trust that Fred Smith placed in him. Jim helped shape the future of FedEx and left a lasting mark on the airline industry. Jim’s leadership in billion-dollar aircraft acquisitions left a lasting imprint on aviation technology and infrastructure. Jim was widely respected for his sharp business acumen, courage when making tough decisions, and unwavering integrity. Jim was well-liked by his colleagues, his employees and across the global aviation community at large. Jim loved his FROGS (FedEx Retired Old Geezers)!
Beyond the boardroom, Jim was a man of heart and humor. He was known for his piercing baby blue eyes, dry wit and deep love of music. A talented guitarist and band member, Jim was never happier than when playing DJ from his backyard gazebo or blasting late-night tunes for anyone willing to listen. Though naturally introverted, he delighted in surprising a crowd with a soulful rendition of Elvis or Hank Williams.
Above all, Jim was a devoted family man. His love for his wife, Diane, was fierce and steadfast. He adored his children and grandchildren, and nothing gave him more pride than being surrounded by them. His family was, without question, his greatest love and achievement.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Ramsey Parker, his four children, Amy Beaupre (Eric), Jennifer Rosenblum (Cary), Brooke Justice (Will), and Matthew Parker (Sara). Also, his eleven grandchildren, Grant, Lawson, Eli, Sophie, Emmeline, Carlyle, Parker, Knox, Ella, Harrison, and Whit, and his brother, Jay Parker (Linda).
The family would like to thank the caregivers at FirstLight (Bobbi, Coby, Jett, Marcia, and Monique) for taking such loving care of Jim in his final years.
Donations in Jim’s memory may be made to ORBIS, The Parkinson’s Foundation (of your choice), Mosaic Memphis, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. All of the above charities were close to his heart.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119 (901) 767-8930. “Where Memphis comes to remember, since 1924.”
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