Tracey Ann Parker

Tracey A. Parker, age 68, passed away in Franklin, Tennessee, due to heart failure. 

Tracey lived a life full of love, adventure, and creativity. A devoted wife, mother, and friend, she will be remembered for her strong spirit, her generous heart, and the way she embraced life to its fullest. Born into a Navy family, Tracey’s love of travel began early and remained one of her greatest joys. Whether exploring new places with her husband or skydiving with her son, she approached every adventure with enthusiasm and courage.

Tracey met the love of her life, David, at Northwood Assembly Church in Charleston, SC. Together they built a marriage rooted in faith, love, and adventure, raising a family and creating countless memories over more than 42 years. One of her favorite journeys was a recent trip to Italy with her husband in 2024. Of all the different cities she lived in, her Franklin home held her heart dearer than any other place.

Tracey’s creativity and organizational abilities knew no bounds. She loved working on art projects, mainly creating paper-mâché objects from recycled materials as well as painting. Besides visiting inspiring botanical gardens, she loved to spend time in her own garden; she called it her “church”. She hoped to deepen her passion in that realm by becoming a Master Gardener.

She also cherished and devoured books, either reading or listening to hundreds of books per year. A perpetual student, she was always eager to learn more about everything, including art, health, history, fashion, home renovations…the list went on and on. She was also a gourmet cook with hundreds if not thousands of recipes. Her husband, son and friends were grateful “guinea pigs” of her culinary skills.

Along with traveling, she treasured the simple pleasures of life, especially time with family, old friends as well as new friends, sharing laughter over meals. She was fiercely independent, yet always loving and supportive to those around her. If she teased you, that was her sign of love and affection.

As a survivor of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma for over 33 years, she faced that initial challenge with faith and resilience. Her strength and determination through that inspired many. A follower of Jesus Christ, her faith was the foundation of her life and the source of her hope and joy.

She leaves behind her beloved husband, J. David Parker; son, Ian S. Parker; brothers, Daniel (Margie) Vincent and Kenneth Vincent; her Uncle Ray Vincent; 13 nieces and nephews; as well as many dear friends and extended family who will carry her memory in their hearts. She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Janice Vincent.

Tracey’s life was a testament to living fully, loving deeply, and walking faithfully. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A life celebration will be scheduled later.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either the American Heart Association or the Lymphoma Research Foundation.