Obituary of Paul Julian Parker

Paul Julian Parker passed away Oct. 16, 2016 due to COPD and pneumonitis. Paul was born Feb. 5, 1947 in Phoenix, AZ., grew up in Mobile, AL., attended the seminary for 6 years and then earned his BA in sociology from Loyola University New Orleans. Paul served in the Vietnam War and was proud of his service even though he suffered long-term medical issues due to exposure to agent orange. Despite all the negative talk in the news regarding the VA system, Paul had extremely positive experiences at the VA in Durham, NC and felt very fortunate to receive such a high level of care. Paul earned an MA in Psychology and a PhD in the Administration of Higher Education from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. He had a lifelong career in higher education, serving as the Vice President of Student Affairs at Butler University in Indianapolis, Loyola University Chicago, and Townson University near Baltimore, before retiring at age 55. Soon after retiring to Hillsborough, NC, he volunteered with the Duke University Medical Center's Heart Center and Orange Congregations in Mission (OCIM)'s Meals on Wheels program, later serving on several committees and subsequently as president of their Board. Being outdoors and taking long hikes with his dog was one of Paul's favorite activities. He also loved traveling, reading and cooking. Paul is survived by his wife of 46 years, Patti Parker, his two daughters Lara Orgain; of Durham, NC and Jennifer (John) Crain of Portland OR; two grandchildren, Opal Crain and Tyler Orgain; and his brother Bernard Street Parker. A mass of intention will be offered by Father Mark Betti at Holy Family Catholic Church, 216 Governor Burke Rd. Hillsborough, NC on October 30, 2016 at 9:45 am. A memorial service will be held at the Hillsborough United Methodist Church, 130 West Tryon Street, Hillsborough, NC, on October 30, 2016 at 3:00 pm, followed by refreshments in the church fellowship hall. Pastor Al Horne will preside. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to OCIM, a ministry which provides Meals on Wheels, a Food Pantry, Samaritan Relief and a Thrift Store. Walker's Funeral Home of Hillsborough is honored to serve the Parker family. Online condolences may be offered at www.walkersfuneralservice.com