Jean West Carson-Parker

Jean W. Carson-Parker, 85, who loved life, laughter and people, died at home (known as her “little mansion on the hill”) on Friday in Raleigh, NC, after a period of deteriorating health. A celebration of her life will be held at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 831 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh, on Saturday, Nov. 10, from 4 until 7 p.m. A graveside service will be held on Monday, November 12, at 2 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery in Tarboro, NC. Jean never met a stranger, and was interested in everyone who crossed her path. She was a masterful storyteller with a wicked fun sense of humor and an infectious smile. One story would lead to another and to another, as she kept her listeners engrossed and entertained. She met life’s challenges with grace, an indomitable spirit, a positive attitude and unflagging courage, inspiring those around her. Her greatest legacy is the legion of friends she made in “the rooms,” and she cherished these friendships, some of which lasted decades. She was born to William Barry Carson and Dessie Ardell West Carson in Edgecombe County, NC, the youngest of four girls. She grew up on a farm and in the Snow Hill grocery store run by her father, and Saturday night square dancing was a fond memory. She graduated from Hugh Morson High School in 1951 and from King’s Business College in 1953. She worked for the State of North Carolina in various divisions, mostly the NC State Board of Health. She also worked at Chowan College, and was manager of a halfway house, where she loved and was loved by the residents. She is survived by her daughter, Laurel Smithson and her husband Michael of Lawrenceville, GA; granddaughters Pamela (Doug) Bryan of Atlanta, GA, and Kelly (Steve) Putman of Duluth, GA; sister Willie Bea Lindsey of Raleigh; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and half-sisters Jessie Proctor and Virginia Bass. Jean and her family were especially grateful for the help of many friends in recent months, especially from her devoted niece Peggy Ann Proctor Stines and special friend Cindy Meeker. The family would also like to express their gratitude to Dr. Jonathan Flescher and the staff at Wake Internal Medicine for their excellent care during the past 17 years. Memorials may be made to Transitions LifeCare or to a charity of your choice.