Clayton Kenneth Parker

Clayton was born in Istanbul, Turkey in 1960. He grew up in Maryland, and has lived in Alexandria for the past 16 years. His life is marked by a strong work ethic, a positive attitude in all that he did, a passion for life, a loyal heart, an infectious laugh, a great appreciation for friends, a love for family, and above all, an endless love and devotion to his wife Sandy and his daughter Kirsten.Clayton was diagnosed with cancer in the fall of last year, and fought valiantly from that time until his battle was ultimately lost. Throughout late fall and winter, Clayton spent a great deal of time at Georgetown Hospital, where he was attended to by a tremendous team of physicians and nursing staff. He spent a brief time at Woodbine Nursing Home in February, before being moved to his father Roy Parker?s home in LaPlata, Maryland. There, Clayton was lovingly cared for by his father and his father?s wife Lois, and also by Sandy, Kirsten and Hospice. Throughout his illness, Clayton?s sisters were often at his bedside. Since Clayton?s diagnosis, Sandy and Kirsten have cared tirelessly for Clayton, never resting, and truly cherishing every moment that they had with their husband and father.Clayton?s final moments came peacefully at approximately 3:00 am on April 4th, while in his father?s home. Clayton is survived by his wife, Sandy Cariffe Parker and by his daughter, Kirsten Allie Parker, both of Alexandria, Virginia. He is also survived by his father, Roy Parker and his wife, Lois Parker; his father Ken Olson and his wife Terry Olson; his mother Mayda Butler and her husband Paul Butler; his sisters Laura Hudson and Deanna McWilliams; his brothers Chris Olson and Erik Olson.On April 7, 2011, Clayton?s family will receive guests at 2:00 pm, with a funeral service following at 3:00 pm, both at the Belle Haven Country Club, located at 6023 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, contributions are being accepted for the KIRSTEN PARKER EDUCATIONAL TRUST. Donations can be made at any Capital One banking institution. Clayton will be deeply missed. As sad as this occasion is, we know that Clayton would want everyone to live fully and completely and to celebrate his memory by doing so.