Raymond Earl “Ray” Parker, 68, of Elizabeth City, died Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at his residence after a long battle with cancer. Raymond was born in Craven County to the late Samuel Amos and Arlene Drake Parker of New Bern.

Raymond retired as a fabricator/welder from Dunavant’s Welding and Steel, Inc. and served his country honorably in the U.S. Army. As a veteran of the Vietnam War, he was awarded the Purple Heart, an Army Commendation Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, a National Defense Service Medal, an Army Sharpshooter Marksmanship Badge, an Army Expert Marksmanship Badge and several Army Overseas Service Bars for his courageous service.

Survivors include wife Mary, stepdaughters Erin Wurzler (Joe) and Kayla Stallings (Corey); sons, Jason Parker (Meredith) and Rodney Parker (Jenny); sister Sylvia Powell (Billy); brothers Steve, Jimmy, Joey and Robert Parker; granddaughters Cayman and Kenison Parker and grandsons Bryson Parker and Hunter Wurzler. He is preceded in death by sister Mary Niles and brother Lester Parker.

In accordance with Raymond’s wishes, no services will be held. The family gratefully suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Ray’s memory be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop funeral Services Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

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