BEAUMONT, Texas — Former Texas Senator Carl Parker sadly passed away around 6 p.m. Friday night at 89-years-old.
Carl Parker was born in Port Arthur on August 6, 1934. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and went on to attend the University of Texas where he earned his law degree in 1958, according to the Museum of Gulf Coast website.
His son, Allen Parker, says after being a lawyer, a Texas representative and a senator, his dad leaves behind a huge legacy.
"The last few days he hadn't been feeling good. And he went to sleep and he didn't wake up. It was a peaceful thing, he went on his own terms," he said.
He was elected as a Democratic member of the Texas House of Representatives and served from 1962-1977.
Carl Parker was then elected to the State Senate from 1977 to 1995, the Museum of the Gulf Coast states.
"He's done so much and he's left his mark here," his son told 12News.
He sponsored or co-sponsored more than 400 bills that were signed into law, according to the Museum of the Gulf Coast.
"We believe that is a record in Texas history. He was willing to do whatever it took to accomplish the public good he was seeking. That's what we'll miss and will always miss," said Former President of LSCPA, Dr. Sam Monroe.
The bills included legislation to establish jail standards, establish Lamar State College Port Arthur and Orange. He also helped elevate Lamar University to its current university status.
Dr. Sam Monroe is a former colleague of Carl Parker. He says his contributions forever changed higher education in Southeast Texas.
"Carl worked at the college as a part time instructor of business law. Then in '75 he passed the bill that funded the college for state resources," said Dr. Monroe.
During his tenures he spent time as Speaker Pro Tempore of the House and President Pro Tempore of the State Senate.
As Southeast continues to mourn his loss, his family is remembering him.
"He's like everybody's dad. Your dad takes and teaches you how to hunt and fish. Of course I had the pleasure of practicing law with my dad. And those are experiences you never forget," Allen said.
Reuben Zapata worked with Carl Parker for 28 years. He considers him to be a second dad.
"He's seen my kids grown into adults, and he's always been there for me," Zapata said.
Carl Parker leaves behind his wife Dr. Beverly Parker, three children and four grandchildren.
Allen says his dad's memorial service will be held April 2 at 3 p.m. at Calder Baptist Church in Beaumont and he will be buried at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin.
A visitation will be held prior to the funeral at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, you can send donations to Parker Scholarship Fund at P. O. Box 1446, Port Arthur, TX, 77641, Gift of Life located at 2390 Dowlen Road, Beaumont, TX 77706 and Calder Baptist Church at 1005 N. Eleventh St., Beaumont, TX, 77702.