Submit a PhotoService Date: Friday, February 10th, 2023
Service Location: Gilbert Memorial Park, 3:30-4:30 PM 2100 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert, AZ. 85297
A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following services at the home of Tara and Scott Hilliard (just a few miles from GMP).
Cody Jacob Parker, lovingly known as Gooey by many, left this world unexpectedly and far too soon on January 20th, 2023.
Born in Chandler, Arizona, Cody was a deeply curious child who wanted to see and understand the way things worked. He would often tear apart household items and put them back together to understand how they functioned.
Cody’s thirst for knowledge and need to experience new things persisted as he grew older. An avid reader, who could conquer a 400 page book in a day, he preferred to live in the moment, go and do. Cody was fearless, determined and headstrong. He had an incredible sense of humor and his witty ways, ever-present hint of sarcasm, and quick responses would first elicit hearty laughter followed by, “Did he just say that?” … Yes, he sure did.
At the age of 17, Cody enlisted in the Army where he later served as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic. Service acknowledgements include the Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Army and Overseas Service Ribbons. Fond memories he shared included camaraderie with fellow German and Iraqi soldiers building RC cars and racing them during down times in Iraq. Cody loved to tinker and modify; he knew how to make parts in a pinch or have them delivered in a timely manner if someone needed them.
After his military service, Cody, a disabled veteran, diligently worked to tackle mental health challenges and later, physical ones as well. Despite his struggles, Cody often found the positive. He had an extraordinary gift of making connections with people and striking up a conversation with anyone he encountered, which often compelled them to do the same. His smile was contagious. Cody was extremely smart and surprised many by how educated he was on countless topics. Because of his nature, Cody had an amazing and incredibly diverse group of friends. Among his “circles,” he shared his love of art, techno music, and collecting rare colorful pins and stickers. His Gooey lifestyle was about never fitting the mold and always striving for change and creativity.
Cody loved his little brother deeply. Despite a 17 year age gap, his relationship with Connor was special. They often passed the time playing video games at all hours or just chatting about random topics and life. The two seemed to have an unspoken connection as if each knew what the other was thinking. Cody also loved food and was a big fan of home cooked meals and ice cream. Weekends meant a visit to see mom, dad and Connor for one of his favorite dishes and always included his best 4-legged friend Huffman. Huffman and Cody were inseparable, driving around town in Cody’s prized black and red dually truck, frequently making their rounds. Cody was loved and adored by many and made a lasting impression on all. He left this world too soon; however he will forever be fondly remembered.
Cody is survived by his family including parents, Tara and Scott Hilliard, his little brother Connor Hilliard, his always present canine companion Huffman, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and countless Friends he knew and loved along his journey.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to Wounded Warriors in honor of Cody Parker.
URL: In Memory of Cody Jacob Parker – Fundraising For Wounded Warrior Project Community Fundraising
May Cody’s memory live on in all of us.
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Biggest hugs to you & your family. Tara, you & Cody were some of our greatest family friends growing up. We had some great childhood memories growing up! I know you love your boy deeply & he will be so missed.
So sorry for your loss and you have our deepest sympathy.
I am so sorry for your loss but your memories will be of comfort for you all.
Tara, you and your family are in my thoughts & prayers. I’m so very sorry for the loss of your beloved Cody.
Cody, you will be missed Sir. Enjoyed our time together when you stayed at our house. God’s speed Cody.
Tara- so sorry to hear the news about Cody. Although we have lost touch over the last few years I still remember many conversations we had through the years about him and your concern for his well being. I can’t imagine what you and your family must be going through right now. You have my sincere condolences
for your loss.
Many blessings of love to your family through this difficult time. We are deeply saddened by your loss. Our heartfelt condolences to your family.
Love and hugs to you and your family, Tara. Cody, rest in peace. . . . .
Tara and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine the heartbreak of this news. Stay strong and know that you are all in my thoughts. RIP Cody.
Your family is in our prayers. Beautifully written and such an expression of love.
I hope you will find peace in prayer… love to you all
Tara, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I’m so very sorry to hear about Cody. May you find peace and comfort that surpasses all understanding during this time of sorrow.
Tara and family, so sorry for your loss. I seen Cody a few months back he stopped by my job. It was a great visit we had.
Cody had a heart of gold and was willing to assist anyone in need. His spirit was radiating and his smile contagious. I love you brother!!!
RIP Cody, I’m sorry I didn’t keep up with you more these past few years. It was always nice running into you, and I remember the time you and your mom took me to my first baseball game as a kid. I also think about all the times we would just hangout and play Pokémon for hours, and how much simpler times were.
I just know you’re riding that rainbow road to Valhalla. Rest easy.