Gail Karen Parker

Gail Karen Parker, age 85, of Kingsport, passed away early Friday morning in hospice care at NHC, Kingsport. Born May 25, 1940, to Bayard McCurry Addington and Ina Ruth Addington, she grew up in Kingsport, where she graduated from Dobyns Bennett High School. She attended Bridgewater College in Virginia to become a teacher, but left when the love of her life asked her to marry him. Gail met Glenn Parker at church camp when she was 15. At 19, she moved to and was married in Jacksonville, Florida, where Glenn was stationed in the Navy.

Gail was a loving wife and an exceptional mother to Sherry and David. She was active in the school system as PTA President, a Board member, and a Homeroom Mom. She loved Jesus and was a member of the Methodist Church at a young age. She later became a member of the Church of the Brethren, where she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir and was active on the Church Board. During a brief part time job working for the American Greeting Card Company, she was named Employee of the Year.

Gail touched many lives with her kindness, humbleness, and concern for others because of her love for Christ. As a person who literally never said a single unkind word about another human being, she taught those around her unconditional love. Speaking of love, she and Glenn were married for 66 ½ years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her one-day-old son, Kenneth Jackson, and other family members.

Gail is survived by her husband, Glenn Parker; son, David Parker; daughter, Sherry Raymer and her husband, Ronny; grandsons, Justin Raymer (Patti) and Ryan Raymer (Ashley); great-grandsons, Jacob and Colin; great-granddaughters, Rylie and Addison; and a few other relatives.

The family would like to thank Amedisys Hospice and NHC of Kingsport for Gail’s excellent care.

The family will receive friends from 2pm – 4pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Hamlett Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. A Celebration of Life will take place following visitation at 4pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Gail’s honor.