Edward Leon Parker, of Oak City, NC was born in Lewiston-Kelford in Bertie County, North Carolina, passed away on October 18, 2026. Born on December 19, 1930, to David Whit Parker and Annie Mae Sinnet, Edward’s life spanned more than nine decades and was enriched by the family and friends he held dear.

Edward, who was referred to as Leon by members of family in NC during his younger years, then later during his military years was referred to as Edward or Ed. Upon his return to NC, Edward returned to his familiar, Leon.

Ed shared 44 years of marriage with his first wife, Lawlee Regan Parker, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved siblings, Hilda Flora, Raymond, Juanita, Rupert Ray, and Eloise.

Leon leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Thelma Cannon-Parker, who lovingly shared this chapter of his life. He will also be fondly remembered by his stepchildren, Carlene Cannon Billups and her husband, Dan, of Wakefield, Virginia, and Kevin Cannon and his wife, Donna, of Tarboro, North Carolina; his grandchildren, Brenden Cannon and his wife, Chelsea, of Orlando, Florida, Chase Cannon and his wife, Blair, of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, and Chris Cannon of Tarboro, North Carolina; and his great-grandchildren, Tanner, Parker, Madison, Kinslee, and Tucker. Leon was also survived by a host of nieces and nephews that he held dear.

At 18, Leon enlisted in the US Navy and spent the next nine years traveling the world aboard a naval carrier. Leon then enlisted in the US Air Force where he continued his travels and military service until his retirement in 1969 after 21 years of serving his country.

Leon enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved being on the water and fishing from his dock at Water Hole Creek in Fairhope, AL where he lived for over 40 years. Upon his marriage to Thelma, Leon moved back to NC and enjoyed working on the farm with nephews Ricky and Anthony Cannon on Ricky’s farm in Oak City, NC. He will always be remembered for his baritone voice.

Visitation will be held at Carlisle Funeral Home, 701 Hospital Dr., Tarboro, NC on Thursday October 22, 2026, starting at 1:30 pm followed by a service in the funeral home chapel at 3:00 pm officiated by Minister Chris Minton. The graveside with Military rites will be held at a later time in Foley , Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Leon’s memory to the American Legion Post # 131, c/o Kenneth Hutchinson, 2851 McCaskey Rd., Williamston, NC 27892.

Sincere thanks to nurses and aides of Gentiva Hospice, East Carolina Home Care (Veterans Administration) and Clark’s Medical Equipment for their support to Leon and our family during this time. A special thanks to his home health aide, Angel Moreno.