GILBERT EDWARD PARKER

Posted

SPARTANBURG - Gilbert Edward Parker, 82, husband of Nita Arnold Parker, died on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018.

He was born on April 17, 1936, to the late William Freeman and Dorothy Bradham Parker. He was a graduate of Edmunds High School in Sumter and graduated from Clemson University in 1961. Gilbert served the Spartanburg community in architecture for 44 years and the majority of that time was with McMillian Smith and Partners Architects. He was a member of AIA and the Spartanburg County Historical Association. Gilbert was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church for more than 50 years, where he and Nita enjoyed the fellowship of the Builders Sunday School Class.

We celebrate his life that was marked by his deep faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his unwavering love for his wife of 56 years. In her words, "Every day spent with him was an absolute joy." He had a deep love for his children and grandchildren and loved investing in them. His other loves were the Clemson Tigers and spending time at the lake. He walked with integrity all the days of his life, always intent on doing what was right, even when it was difficult.

In addition to his wife, Gilbert is survived by his son, Gilbert Edward Parker Jr., MD (Stacy) of Sumter; daughter, Fran Parker Solesbee (Jay) of Seneca; eight grandchildren, Trey, Erin, Catherine and John Parker, and Carson, Parker, Bettina and Bailey Solesbee; sister-in-law, Kay Parker of Florence; and four nephews, Michael, Mark, Matt and Mitch Parker of Florence.

He was predeceased by his brother, William Freeman Parker Jr., MD of Florence.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. today at Bethel United Methodist Church, Spartanburg.

A memorial service with military honors will follow at 3 p.m., officiated by the Rev. Ben L. Barnett, the Rev. Cam Treece and the Rev. Thurman Anderson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, Trustee Fund, 245 Church St., Spartanburg, SC 29306.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.jmdunbar.com

Dunbar Funeral Home & Crematory of Spartanburg is in charge of arrangements.