The Mount Pleasant community and the world of journalism are in mourning following the death of James Parker, a respected reporter for The Post and Courier. Parker, 67, was discovered near his Hobcaw-area home on the morning of January 31 after being reported missing the previous evening.
Authorities reported that Parker was last seen around 7 p.m. on January 30 while jogging near Bampfield Drive. His body was later recovered in Hobcaw Creek, with the cause of death pending an autopsy, according to the Mount Pleasant Police Department.
Parker enjoyed a distinguished journalism career spanning more than 30 years. He initially focused on business and banking, earning widespread respect for his clear, thorough reporting. Over time, he turned his attention to Charleston’s evolving real estate market and car culture, captivating readers with insightful features that highlighted the city’s vibrant landscape.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Parker was a devoted husband to his wife, Penny, and an active member of the Mount Pleasant community. Known for his love of running, he was a familiar figure on neighborhood streets, and those who knew him described him as kind, loyal, and intellectually curious.
Although Parker’s final article was published in 2019, his legacy lives on through his work and the impact he had on colleagues, readers, and friends. His family has requested privacy as they grieve, with funeral, memorial, and visitation arrangements to be announced in the coming days.
The loss of James Parker is deeply felt, but his dedication to storytelling and the connections he fostered in both journalism and his community will be remembered for years to come.