Edward Clark Raper

Edward Clark Raper, age 86, of New Bern, North Carolina went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 9, 2022. A North Carolina native, Ed was born in 1935 in Greensboro, grew up and lived in Tarboro for many years before retiring to New Bern. He answered the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force, dedicating twelve years of his life to military service before receiving his honorable discharge. In Tarboro, Ed owned and operated his own septic tank service, where he enjoyed helping his customers and making friends.

To know Ed was to love him. He never met a stranger and greeted everyone with a big smile and had a gift for making everyone laugh. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and sports of all kinds as well as traveling to the mountains and spending time with his beloved, Effie. Ed also enjoyed working at Pollock-Best Funeral Home during his retirement and will be remembered by many for the comfort he gave to families during their time of grief. He loved the Lord and looked forward to seeing his church family wherever he worshipped through the years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Effie Lamm Raper of the home; two sisters-in-law, Aggie Jackson and Ann Lamm, both of New Bern; niece, Beth Austin (Cliff); niece-in-law, Michelle Anderson; great niece, Taylor Jones; great nephew, Brad Anderson; special friend, Nora Stewart; his beloved sidekick, "Bo Bo;" and his many Bojangles friends.

Memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 13, 2022 at Cotten Funeral Chapel with Pastor Rex Bennett officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Highland Park Christian Church, 905 Carolina Avenue, Trent Woods, NC 28562.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cottenfuneralhome.com for the Raper family.

Arrangements are in the care of Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.