HUGH JAMES PARKER was born on November 22, 1949, in Heidelberg, MS, one of three sons of Dr. William Harrison (Doc) and Mary Weems Parker. Unexpectedly he passed away on June 17, 2026, while doing what he loved most—spending time with family and friends. Hugh dedicated his life to the accounting profession through exceptional leadership, education, mentorship, and service.

Hugh graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1973 and received his master’s degree a year later. His commitment to excellence was evident early in his career when he received the Mississippi Society of CPAs’ prestigious Fred T. Neely Gold Medal in 1975 for earning the highest score on the Mississippi CPA Exam. Hugh taught at USM from 1975 to 1978 where he was recognized with Outstanding Teacher Awards in both 1977 and 1978. Seeking to deepen his understanding of the profession, he earned his Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University before entering public accounting. He often explained that teaching felt incomplete without practical experience, a philosophy that guided his distinguished career as both an educator and practitioner.

After several years in public accounting, Hugh returned to academia at USM and then joined the faculty at Millsaps College in 1987. Six years later he became Dean of the Else School of Management, where he helped shape the next generation of business leaders. In 1998, he transitioned back to public accounting as a partner with HORNE LLP, later serving as the firm’s President and Executive Partner from 2003 until his retirement in 2012. Hugh led the firm’s evolution from a traditional CPA practice into a professional services organization with a strong government services presence. Throughout his career, he was widely respected for his expertise in strategic planning, business valuation, succession planning, and leadership.

Hugh’s influence on the accounting profession extended far beyond his own career. He served as President (now Chairman) of the MSCPA during 1996–97 after years of dedicated volunteer service, including work with the Advisory Committee to the State Board of Public Accountancy, chapters, and numerous Society committees. Known across Mississippi and the nation as an outstanding continuing professional education instructor, he taught courses for both the MSCPA and the AICPA. His excellence in the classroom earned him the AICPA Outstanding Instructor Award in both 1991 and 1993. In 2000, he was recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration as Mississippi’s Accounting Advocate of the Year.

Equally committed to his community, Hugh generously shared his leadership with numerous civic and nonprofit organizations. He served on the boards of the Mississippi Affiliate of the National Association to Prevent Blindness, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi, the Jackson Enterprise Center, Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church, and the Mississippi United Methodist Pension Board. He also served as chairman of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, reflecting his appreciation for the arts and his dedication to strengthening communities throughout Mississippi.

Those who knew Hugh remember not only his remarkable accomplishments but also his humility, wisdom, wit, and genuine care for others. He was a gifted teacher, an innovative leader, and a trusted mentor whose influence shaped countless students, colleagues, and accounting professionals even up until his death. Whether leading a classroom, guiding a business, or serving his profession, Hugh approached every opportunity with integrity, excellence, and a servant’s heart.

Above all, Hugh was devoted to his family. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Cynthia, children, grandchildren, extended family, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, encouragement, and unwavering faith. His legacy lives on through the generations of accountants he mentored, the institutions he strengthened, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable career and life of service.

The Mississippi Society of CPAs honors the life and legacy of Hugh Parker with deep gratitude. His contributions to the profession and to the people of Mississippi will continue to inspire future generations of Certified Public Accountants for years to come.