Charlotte Merle Crocker

Raleigh – Charlotte Merle Crocker, 78, passed away on February 19, 2021 following a brief but intense battle with cancer. Born May 19, 1942 in Johnston County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Thurman and Penina Evans. She attended Selma High School and East Carolina University, majoring in Elementary Education. For over thirty years, as a teacher in Chesapeake, Virginia and Wake County, North Carolina, she pursued her professional passion of helping shape and improve the lives of countless young students. She also had the time and energy for her personal passion as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and a cherished friend to many. In addition to her parents, Merle was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Evans and a sister, Annette Johnson. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Mel Crocker; a son, Michael Crocker (Tracie Curtis); a daughter, Michelle Schoonover (Kevin); two grandchildren, Eli and Joe Schoonover; sisters, Gail Smith (Bill) of Lexington, NC and Cathy Batten of Selma, NC and many loving nieces and nephews. Mrs. Crocker will lie in state from 3:00-6:00 pm Tuesday, February 23rd at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, Garner for those wishing to pay their respects. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm Wednesday, February 24th at Selma Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.