It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Leslie R. Parker Sr. on December 11, 2023.   He was born March 23, 1944 in San Saba, Texas to Sam Clifton and Francis (Patton) Parker.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Joyce Bell.

Les married his wife of 59 years, Relda Padgett Parker on November 23, 1964 in Deer Park, Texas. The family made their forever home in Polk County, Texas in 1980.  He is survived by his wife, Relda Parker; daughter, Tracy Redden and husband, Larry (favorite son in law) of Livingston, Texas and his son, Leslie (Bubba) Parker Jr. and wife, Krystal (favorite daughter in law) of Livingston, Texas.  Brothers, Charlie Parker and wife, Angie of Maryville, Tennessee and David Parker of Galveston, Texas.  Beloved Grandchildren:  Lacey Redden, Sadie Parker, Emma Redden, Abby Redden, Blake Baggett and Brinkley Baggett.  Adored Great Grandchildren:  Everly Fontenot, Maleia Villa and Hallie Villa.

Most people thought of Dad as gruff and they were correct but he was also the most hard-working and loving father any two kids could ever ask for.  He loved his grandkids and his great grandkids completely and it was in their presence his truly soft and caring side would come out.  Leslie supported his family as a rigger in the Heavy Crane and Rigging industry and traveled all over the world working in his craft.  He was well known in the industry as a leader and trusted advisor.  He was just as well known for his "off color" jokes and sense of humor.  Dad was happiest when working and never liked being idle.  He tinkered with everything mechanical and otherwise and when he was no longer able to do it himself he would supervise the rest of us while we tried to do it for him.  He will be tremendously missed by his wife, kids, grandkids, friends and extended family because there was truly no one else like him.  Thank you for everything you gave us and taught us Daddy.  We love you.

Service will be held Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Cochran Funeral Home Chapel in Livingston, Texas. Interment will follow at Peebles Cemetery in Livingston, Texas. Visitation will be held from 12:00-2:00 p.m. at the Cochran Funeral Home Chapel, prior to service.

Pallbearers: Justin Grubbs, Clayton Padgett, Clifton Padgett, Clint Padgett, Lee Allen, Clyde Hughes, Jimmy Pearson, and Blake Baggett