State funeral services were held today for the late former Speaker William “Don” Parkinson, the father of current Senator Will Parkinson.

The elder Parkinson served seven consecutive terms in the Guam Legislature from 1983 to 1996. He was elected speaker of the 23rd Legislature in 1995.

His son delivered the eulogy, saying, “He taught us that public service is noble and necessary, and one can serve with integrity and hold true to important values. Like freedom and family. He strongly believed it was important to give back to the island community and country in which he lived. And my dad loved politics, where others wore the title of politician with sheepishness, he wore the title of politician with pride. And among politicians let it be said with pride, he was among the best.”

The late Speaker Parkinson passed away in the Philippines during the pandemic and was honored posthumously.

He is survived by his wife Marina, seven children and five grandchildren.