Edmund Whitfield Parker Jr., died Monday, May 25, 2015, in Manning.
Born June 27, 1954, he was a son of Edmund Whitfield Parker Sr. and Lee Doris Blackmon. Eddie graduated from Williamsburg Academy in Kingstree and the University of South Carolina, where he majored in journalism. He managed several radio stations after graduation before his employment with The State newspaper in 1982. He remained there until 1996, serving as assistant circulation director.
He was a gifted musician beginning in his childhood, when he faithfully played the piano for his church. Eddie loved all types of music and played the piano and guitar for more than 40 years. His musical career included playing in various groups, such as Brandy and Mama’s Home Cookin’. He was often requested to play for many weddings and funerals because of his love for others and his God-given musical ability.
In 2013, after various health challenges, he became a resident at Agape Transitional Care of West Columbia. As the youngest resident, he was challenged to examine his life. His focus on the temporal changed to what is eternal. This change was evident in his life as he began to share his faith in Jesus by leading Bible studies and sharing his testimony with staff and residents as well as their families. He also served as the patient advocate liaison for his fellow residents at Agape Transitional Care. In addition, he was an avid USC fan and wore his colors proudly.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved canine companion, Abby.
Survivors include a sister, Alice Parker Freeman and her husband, Joe, along with numerous cousins in the Lane, Sumter, Greenville and Hartsville areas; and his special angel friends, Kenny and Debbie Stafford of Lexington; and his ex-wife of 18 years, Rhonda Marie June Parker.
Visitation for Edmund Whitfield Parker Jr. was held Thursday, May 28, 2015, at Lane United Methodist Church, with funeral services following in the church sanctuary.
Burial for Edmund Whitfield Parker Jr. was held in Union Presbyterian Church cemetery, directed by Williamsburg Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, Eddie requested that any donations in his memory be made to Samaritan's Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
