09/26/2026
Lina Padgett Parker, born April 24, 1951, in Jacksonville, NC, passed away on September 22, 2026, in Greenville, NC, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, wisdom, and devoted service to others.
Lina lived a life marked by quiet strength, Christian grace, and steadfast devotion to her family and community. She was a loving mother, a cherished sister, a treasured grandmother, and a faithful friend to many. She is survived by her son, Reverend Wade Parker, and his wife, Cherry, of Winterville, NC; her sister, Tursee Barnette, of Maysville, NC; her grandchildren, Abigail, Samuel, and Ruth Parker, all of Winterville, NC; and many other extended family members and friends who were blessed by her presence and kindness.
A devoted Christian, Lina was a member of Centerview Baptist Church in Jacksonville, North Carolina, where her faith was an important part of her daily life. She lived with a heart committed to the Lord, and those who knew her could see that her beliefs were not only spoken, but lived out through her actions, her compassion, and her care for others. She was also a member of the Eastern Star, where she shared in fellowship and service with dignity and grace.
Lina was a Civil Service employee and worked in Traffic Management, where she carried out her responsibilities with dedication and professionalism. Her work ethic reflected the same integrity that guided every part of her life. In addition to her career, she served on the Onslow County Board of Education for many years, demonstrating her concern for children, families, and the future of her community. She believed in the value of education and the importance of helping others succeed, and she gave her time and voice faithfully to that cause.
Above all, Lina will be remembered as a woman who loved people. She had a gift for good conversation and a deep appreciation for music, both of which brought joy to those around her. She enjoyed spending time with her daughter-in-law, Cherry, and her grandchildren, especially when they went thrifting together. Those simple moments were precious to her, and they reflected the warmth and delight she found in family life. She was known by those closest to her as the greatest grandmother a grandchild could ever have, and her love for Abigail, Samuel, and Ruth was evident in all she did.
Lina was loving, wise, and faith filled. Her life was a testimony to the power of a gentle spirit, a generous heart, and a steadfast walk with God. She encouraged others by her example and brought comfort through her presence. Her family and friends will remember her for her kindness, her humor, her wisdom, and the way she made others feel valued and cared for.
As Scripture reminds us, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Lina’s earthly journey has ended, but the faith she cherished and the love she shared remain as a lasting witness to her life. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her influence will be felt for generations to come.
Though she will be deeply missed, those who mourn her passing take comfort in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Lina Padgett Parker has gone to her heavenly reward, and her family rests in the hope of God’s sustaining grace. Her life was a blessing, her faith was strong, and her love was enduring.
A service to celebrate her life will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026 at 6:00PM at Blue Creek Baptist Church located at 1251 Burgaw Hwy, Jacksonville, NC 28540 with the Reverend Matt Morgan and the Reverend Dr. Michael Schwalm officiating. The family will receive friends following the service until 8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers the family request that memorials be made to the Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina P.O Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361.
Arrangements are in the care of Providence Funeral & Cremation Service 519 Broad St. W. Wilson, NC 27893. Phone: (252) 674-1553 Online condolences may be shared at www.providencefuneral.com.