Jonathan Parry King

Jonathan Parry King July 24, 1957–August 14, 2025

Jonathan Parry King, 68, of Watkinsville, Georgia, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025.

Born on July 24, 1957, in Athens, Georgia, Jonathan was a graduate of Clarke Central High School (Class of 1975) and the University of Georgia, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1979. During his college years, he was a proud member of the UGA Redcoat Marching Band, with a front row seat for his lifelong love for Georgia Bulldogs football.

Jonathan also was involved in musical theater during his college days, performing in plays put on by Athens Creative Theatre and the Town & Gown Players.

Jonathan spent much of his career in sales at Greater Georgia Printers, Burman Printing, and the Ivan Allen Company, where he built lasting relationships across the community with his trademark warmth and sincerity. He never met a stranger; his genuine kindness and easy smile made everyone feel like a friend.

Outside of work, Jonathan poured his heart into his community. He volunteered for many years with the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce (where he served a term as president) as well as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Ten-0 booster club for UGA gymnastics, and was a familiar face in the trivia contests at the Georgia Club.

He loved golf, listening to music, the Touchdown Club of Athens, cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs, cooking and grilling for family events, and sharing laughter and stories with family and friends.

Above all, Jonathan was a man of deep faith and love for the Lord. He cherished his role as a husband, father, and "Pops" to his beloved grandchildren.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 45 years, Lisa King; their three daughters, Jennifer Rudd (John), Melissa Duncan (Aaron), and Caroline Billman (Nick); his grandchildren Gabe Rudd (Haley), Mason Rudd, Coleman Duncan, Grayson Duncan, Alex Duncan, Hayes Billman, and Merritt Billman; his brothers Bill King (Leslie) and Timothy King; and his mother-in-law Shirley Young. He was preceded in death by his parents, William D. King and Mollie Parry King, and his father-in-law James Young.

A celebration of Jonathan’s life will be held Sunday, August 31, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at Trumps Catering in Athens, Georgia. All who knew and loved him are invited to attend in their best Bulldog attire to share in remembering a life so well lived.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, West, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com