Parker Otwell Willson Iii

Parker Otwell Willson III October 14, 1945 - October 14, 2010 Parker Otwell Willson III, long-time Waco resident, passed away peacefully at home Thursday, October 14, 2010. A memorial service will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 23, in Waco at the Waco Civic Theatre. Parker was born October 14, 1945, in Ft. Worth, Texas, to Parker and Lovie Orren Willson. He attended Paschal High School and continued his education at Baylor and O.U. He was one of the first in the country to receive an MFA in Musical Theatre. His love of theatre continued for a lifetime. At the time of his passing, he was Executive Director of Keep McLennan County Beautiful KMCB. He also was the Executive Director of the Waco Civic Theatre until his illness prevented his being able to work outside his home. He worked for 18 years with The Royal, Sovereign, and Imperial Court of the Central Texas Empire, a local fundraising group. Parker reigned as Emperor 7 and 8 of that organization. Parker's life was one of service, education, and sharing. He always took the higher road and urged all those around him to do the same. Parker was a wonderful example of a loving leader. He loved his work with KMCB and did his utmost to help create award winning projects for the county. Parker is survived by his life partner of 20 years and care-giver, John Cameron Orr; children, Krista Caroline Willson, Parker Otwell Roe and wife, Jenny Boykin Roe, and Nikkoli Willson. Also left to cherish his memory are thousands of friends across the city, county and state. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Red Door Food Pantry, c/o MCC Church, 1601 Clay, Waco, Texas 76706. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Memorial Guestbook" at www.WilkirsonHatchBailey.com.