Charles “Bud” Edward Parker Jr.

Published 9:08 am Monday, March 17, 2025

Charles Edward Parker, Jr., lovingly known as Bud or “Preacher” to all who knew him, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on March 13, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family in New Bern, NC.

Born in Winston-Salem, NC, Bud was the son of Rev. Charles E. Parker and Elizabeth Cross Parker. His early years were spent in Franklin, NC, before his family moved to New Bern, where he attended New Bern High School. A talented athlete, Bud was an All-State quarterback and later inducted into the New Bern High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He continued his passion for football at Wake Forest University, where he played as a scholarship athlete from 1957 to 1960.

Following college, Bud dedicated himself to teaching and coaching, inspiring students and players at John Graham High School in Warrenton, NC. During his tenure at the high school, he coached football, basketball, and baseball, remarkably leading all three teams to state finals in the same year. His love for the game led him to serve as Director of the Deacon Club Foundation at Wake Forest University.

Later, Bud built a long and successful career, first co-owning and managing the Holiday Inn in Washington, NC, before transitioning to insurance as the owner of Morris Insurance Agency for 19 years. He then continued his work with Robinson Insurance in New Bern for over 25 years. His commitment to his community extended beyond his career—he served on the Board of Directors for First South Bank for over 42 years and contributed his time and leadership to the Carolina East Medical Center Foundation. Additionally, he was a dedicated Rotarian in Washington, NC.

Bud had a lifelong love for the water and was a past Commodore of the Eastern Carolina Yacht Club. His passion for music was equally profound—he was a dedicated choir member at First Baptist Church in both New Bern and Washington, NC, and he participated in the annual performance of the Messiah in New Bern for approximately 15 years. One of his favorite places to visit was Charleston, SC, where he and his wife enjoyed the city’s charm, history, and beauty.

Bud will be remembered for his charismatic personality, his boundless kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him. With a great sense of humor and a generous heart, he never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He found happiness in simple pleasures—boating to the “Beaufort Riviera”, tending to his yard, and cherishing time with his family, friends, and beloved pets. His warmth and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bud is survived by his beloved wife, Marsha; his children, Charles E. Parker III (Donna) of Wilmington, NC; Mary Elizabeth Parker Stout of Wilmington, NC; Lucia Phillips Parker (Melinda) of Portland, OR; stepson, Christopher Willis (Lisa) of New Bern, NC. He was a proud grandfather to Aaron Parker (Katherine) of Cape Coral, Fl.; Nathan Parker (Lani) of Hampstead, NC; Joshua Parker of Portland, OR; step-grandchildren Shelby Willis Hacker (Jarrett) of New Bern; and Tyler Willis of New Bern. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Elizabeth Parker, as well as his dear sisters, Sarah Elizabeth “Lib” Miller and Janet Heiman.

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 17, from 6 to 8 pm at the First Baptist Church, located at 239 Middle St., New Bern, NC. The memorial service will also be held at the church on Tuesday, March 18, at 2 pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church of New Bern, or the SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House in Newport, NC.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House in Newport, NC, as well as the private caregivers provided by “Assisting at Home”, and CarolinaEast Medical Center for their support and care during this time.  Your special kindness, patience and compassion in attending to our loved one will long be remembered. You make such a special difference in this world.

Bud will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his legacy will live on in the many lives he influenced and the memories he leaves behind.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Charles Edward Parker, Jr.  Online condolences may be made to the family at www.cottenfuneralhome.com.