Elizabeth Mae Parker

Elizabeth Mae Lester Whitford Parker known as “Boots” born August 8, 1935 in New Bern, North Carolina. Her parents were Vera Hopewell Lester Whitford and stepfather Randolph M Whitford and younger sister Vera Ann Gagnon. The sisters were inseparable. They grew up in Bridgeton, North Carolina.

Boots being very athletic played basketball for New Bern High School where she graduated. After graduating she worked for the local bank in New Bern until she married Raymond Bliss Parker Sr. Their lives together began on July 31st 1954. They traveled the country with Ray’s Marine Corps career. They had four children, Karen Elizabeth Edwards, Raymond Bliss, (wife Jill), William Christopher (wife Kathy) and Michael Anthony.

She was predeceased by her sister Ann Gagnon, daughter-in-law, Paula Parker and son-in-law Allen Edwards.

After a wonderful Marine Corps career the family settled in Raleigh North Carolina to be close to Boot’s mother. Shortly after, Boots went to work for Dr. Arthur Stone, Orthodontist. She was his office manager and right hand for 25 years. Upon retirement they decide to move back to Bridgeton to the home her stepfather built in 1953. They have resided there ever since.

Boots never stopped. She became involved in local politics, became Town Commissioner and was again re-elected. Boots was also involved in the startup of the Bridgeton Community Watch program aimed at keeping the town safe. She was instrumental in the local successes of her beloved Bridgeton from its Blueberry festival to procuring land for the Town Park. Her love for the area mirrored their love for the Lord as they enjoyed the closeness at first Baptist Church of New Bern. The town dedicated a small park to Boots and Ray for their constant dedication to their community.

Boots was very much loved by her family, friends and her community. Everyone who knew her said she was always cheerful always happy and always laughing. She will be missed so very much. Her favorite flowers were red roses and her favorite bird was the beautiful red cardinal.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Tri-County Community VFD Station 13.