The message in the Parker Waller Ohoopee Clean-Up
Day is simply this: If you love it, care for it.
of its dark, murky waters. Like the
friend they followed, they instinctively
understood: You can’t be grateful and
irresponsible at the same time.
It was this same spirit of gratitude
for the life of their friend that brought
them together in his memory for the
Parker Waller Ohoopee River Clean-Up
Day. This year’s event was once again
planned for Earth Day–April 18, 2020–
a plan made before COVID-19. The date
has now been changed to June 20th.
All are invited to join in. The event will
be carried out on the black waters of
the Ohoopee River with its ancient
114 TOOMBS COUNTY MAGAZINE
cypress swamps, one of Parker’s
favorite rivers to canoe. The message in
the Parker Waller Ohoopee Clean-Up
Day is simply this: If you love it, care
for it. In caring for the rivers, Parker’s
memory is honored. The following is
a tribute to his memory from friends
who canoed and/or kayaked with him
through the years.
How would you describe Parker
Waller?
Judy Waller: He was one that never
met a stranger and was always there to
lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
He was so very kind and loving.
Karl Owens: He was a good friend -
slow to anger, honest, interesting and
unique, friend of the environment and
lover of all things outdoors, damn good
canoe paddler, all around solid man.
Mark Miller: He was Easy going
and had an immense appreciation
for the outdoors. Everyone loved his
one of a kind sense of humor, playful
mischievousness and his humorous
unpredictability.