PARKS (Parker) (Porter), Carlene Elizabeth

Passed to Glory May 29, 2023. Born in Bear River on December 29, 1933 she was a daughter of the late Nadine and Carl Parker. Carlene is survived by her husband, Ron Parks; stepson, Simon Corkum (Lyndsie Bourgon); sister, Nancy Christensen; brother, Allan (Sylvia) Parker as well as her loving nieces and nephews; April, Kevin, Nicolette, Allana, Lars and Dianna. She is predeceased by her first husband, Elmer Porter; sons, Martin and Brent Porter; brother, Ronnie (Sheila) Parker; brothers and sisters-in-law; Earl (Ruby) Porter and Herald (Joyce) Porter. Carlene attended school at Oakdene in Bear River and in Digby. An A Student and most often first in her class. She worked at the Royal Bank, and for Avon where she was a record holding salesperson. She studied piano and with her cousin, organist Barb Morgan, provided music for Bear River United Baptist Church from age 12 until her retirement at 85. She was a Sunday school teacher and a member and leader of various church groups. She touched many lives as a devoted member of the Gideons, and the Atlantic Christian Ashram at the United Church Camp in Berwick. She helped organize a group of home-care wives to get provincial legislation passed that would require a more equitable split of income when entering a nursing home. This stopped the necessity to give up property to pay for nursing home care. Her ABC’S of home care were read in the legislature. If that were not enough of a life, she had the Faith, spirit and will to marry Ron her husband of the past 20 years. They played music together at nursing homes and special events wherever they happened to be in their travels across Canada and Florida. She loved country gospel songs and was always praised for her lively style. Her Faith inspired all those around her. A gentle sweet soul, everyone's favorite and treasured source of strength and inspiration to husband, Ron. A very special thanks to Dr. Courtney Mazeroll and the nursing staff at Digby General Hospital for the care they provided to Carlene. So very thankful for the exceptional support from Ron's brothers, John, Bill and Alan; sister, Nancy; brother, Allan; pastor, Mark; and all friends and Prayers. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jayne’s Funeral home. A visitation will be held Tuesday, June 6th 6-8 p.m. in Jayne’s Funeral Home in Digby. Funeral service will be held Wednesday June 7th, at 2 p.m. in Bear River United Baptist Church. Donations in memory can be made to the Gideons, or to the Bear River United Baptist Church.