LOUISBURG, NC – Mr. Phillip “Phil” Hughes Parker, age 71, passed away in a Raleigh hospital on March 7, 2016.

He was born November 6, 1944 in Baltimore, MD to Robert Carey Parker and Katrine Collie Parker, both deceased. He lived in Rich Square, NC during his earlier years and graduated from Rich Square High School. He married Cecelia Elizabeth “Beth” Steimle in 1971.

Mr. Parker received an associate degree in Graphic Arts from Chowan College in Murfreesboro, NC. He was honorably discharged after serving four years in the US Army. After approximately twenty-five years of employment, he retired from IBM. He lived most of his adult life in the Raleigh area. He was a gardening enthusiast who ensured there would be space to garden wherever he lived. He also enjoyed traveling, watching football on TV, and especially being with family.

Survivors include his wife, Cecelia S. Parker of the home; one son, Robert H. Parker and his wife Maureen of Raleigh, NC; one brother, Carey R. Parker and his wife Gail of Williamsburg, VA; one granddaughter, Emery G. Parker; one niece; one great-nephew and one great-niece.

Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday March 12, 2016 at 2:00 pm at the Rich Square Baptist Church with a visitation at the church one hour prior to the service. The interment with military honors will follow at the Cedar Lawn Cemetery in Rich Square, NC.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Rich Square Baptist Church, PO Box 589, Rich Square, NC 27869 or favorite charity.

Arrangements are being handled by Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service of Rich Square and online condolences may be directed to the family at www.garrettsykesfs.com.