It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Merris Parker, age 89, of Waxhaw, NC. She passed away peacefully on June 11, surrounded by her loved ones. Merris was born on June 6, 1937 in Effingham, SC to Wilson Hazard and Dora Blanton Yarborough.

Merris graduated from Bonaire High School in 1956 and The College of Commerce in Rock Hill in 1957 and went on to work as a Secretary in Banking and Textiles and then later as a waitress at Angelo’s.

In 1963, she married the love of her life, Robert L Parker, and together they raised three children. She was the heart of her family and spent her life as a devoted wife and mother.

Merris was an amazing woman of faith and sang in a gospel quartet for many years. She will be remembered for her kind heart, sweet spirit, beautiful smile, and ability to make everyone feel like family.

She is survived by her husband Robert L Parker; son Robert A Parker (Robin); daughters, Susan Pettus (Harold Couick), Beverly Rufty (James); grandchildren, Christina Montague (Patrick), Todd Parker (Sarah), Sara Larrimore (Anthony), Parker Rufty, Nathan Rufty, Anna Rufty, Sam Rufty; and great-grandchildren, Emmory, Lucas, Ronan. She is also survived by numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, special friend Bob Corley and other loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents; 13 siblings; and son-in-law, Kenneth Pettus.

The family will receive friends on Friday, June 19 at 12 noon at Gordon’s Funeral Service located at 1904 Lancaster Avenue Monroe, NC. The funeral service will be held immediately after at 1:00 pm with burial to follow at Lakeland Memorial Park.

Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112, is honored to be entrusted to care for the Parker Family.