Robert Earl Parker

RALEIGH -Robert Earl Parker, Sr., 72, passed away peacefully on Saturday surrounded by his family. He was the son of the late James Robert and Emma Ivey Parker. Robert was a graduate of Littlefield High School class of 1958. He retired from Southern Bell with 31 years of service and worked with Alcoa for 15 years. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Robert was active in the community, serving as a Boy Scout Master and an active member of St. Andrews United Methodist Church. Robert served proudly in the NC National Guard for 32 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1991. He received the Army Achievement Medal in December of 1989. Robert served with distinction in Operation Desert Storm from 1990 to 1991 and received the Army Commendation Medal. He received two Meritorious Service Medals in 1990 in recognition of distinguished service to the state of North Carolina and the United States. Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Ernie Parker; three children, Dr. Robert Parker, Jr., Captain USN (ret.) and wife, Cheryl, Kay Parker Paul and husband, Thomas, Renee Parker Weaver and husband, Scott; two grandchildren, Alex Parker and wife, Erica, Sam Parker; and a granddog and two grand kitties. The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM Tuesday, May 22, 2012, at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner. Funeral services will be Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at 1:00 PM at St. Andrews UMC Raleigh. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to St. Andrews UMC, 1201 Maxwell Drive, Raleigh, NC 27603.