Beach Marshal Ron Parker – 1947-1975
Shortly after midnight on January 12, 1975, Deputy Beach Marshal Ronald Parker was shot and killed while investigating an abandoned automobile disabled in the dunes. Officer Parker died serving the people that he had sworn to protect. He served as a Deputy Beach Marshal with St. Augustine Beach for five years and as a Deputy with St. John’s County for two years. Officer Parker also served as a volunteer fireman with the St. Augustine Beach Fire Department, as well as a Florida State Park Ranger at Anastasia Island State Park. In his early years, Ron proudly served his country four years in the U.S. Navy.
The man responsible for the death of Deputy Beach Marshal Ronald Parker, Thomas DeSherlia, was convicted, and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. In October of 2013 Desherlia died in prison after spending nearly four decades incarcerated for his crimes. Full Story
A public park on Pope Road was named in honor of Ron Parker. Every year in January a memorial is held at the park to remember the sacrifice that Ron Parker made for the community.
Flagler College also has a Officer Ron Parker Memorial Scholarship.
Fallen Officer Links
National Law Enforcement Memorial Page
Read the St. Augustine record story from 01-13-1975
