SSG Dustin Lee Parker US Army (Tennessee National Guard)
SGT USMC
August 7, 1980 – August 10, 2019
Dustin was born Aug. 7, 1980, in Crossville, son of Melvin Romond Parker and Donelda “Donna” Josephine (Walkinshaw) Parker.
After serving in both the Marine Corps and then the Army, Dustin worked as an HVAC technician. He will be sadly missed by all of his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Dustin is survived by his sons, Austin Duane Parker, Clarksville, TN and Cameron Myers Parker, Pikeville, TN; daughter, Alexis Morgan Parker, Summer Shade, KY; brothers, Ricky Parker, Crossville, TN and Sam Parker, Crossville, TN; and sister, Melanie Mize (Michael), Crossville, TN. He is preceded in death by his Papaw and Mamaw, Dallas and Mary Parker and his Grandma Marie Walkinshaw.
Dustin will be missed by his many nieces and nephews who loved him. He enjoyed spending time with them and they with him. Family meant everything to Dustin.
Dustin had been diagnosed with PTSD and Bipolar. He never would talk about the things that affected him. He struggled for many years with his demons and had attempted suicide at least 2 times (that I am aware of) before. He was such a kind hearted soul and had compassion for everyone. He made friends with everyone he met. He was a father to 3 children, Austin, Alexis, and Cameron. Cameron was shy 4 months of his 6th birthday when his father passed away.
Dustin signed up with the delayed entry program for the Marine Corp while in High School. Before he turned 18, he left for boot camp. He turned 18 while in boot camp. After the Marine Corp he was in the Marine Corps Reserve, then later joined the Tennessee Army National Guard.
He spent time in Japan (not combat) while in USMC, and had 2 tours of duty in Iraq while in the Tennessee National Guard.
Home was Crossville, Tennessee.
Resting Place: Chattanooga National Cemetery
