TABERG, NY, USA
U.S. MARINE CORPS
SGT, B CO, 1ST CEB, (RCT-5, I MEF FWD), 1ST MAR DIV, CAMP PENDLETON, CA
05/04/2006, FALLUJAH, IRAQ
Sergeant Elisha “Eli” R. Parker, of Camden, lost his life while performing his duties as a combat engineer in Iraq with the U.S. Marine Corps, 1st CEB, based in Camp Pendleton, CA. Eli’s family and friends are proud of his accomplishments as an individual and as a Marine and will never forget his love for God, life, his country and fellow Marines.
Born in Rome, NY, on June 25, 1984, Eli was a 2002 graduate of Camden Central School. He joined the Marine Corps immediately upon graduating from high school and was currently on his third tour of duty in Iraq. He loved his job; he was born to be a Marine. Eli was a committed Christian throughout his life, being active in his church youth ministry. He possessed a thorough understanding of what it meant to be committed and live his life for God.
Eli also enjoyed sports, participating in Little League Baseball, Pop Warner Football, boxing, high school soccer, Nordic skiing, cross-country and track. Eli’s life, though brief in respect to years, was lived with a fullness that touched many individuals. He is remembered for his unique admiration of Spiderman, his unpredictable humor, athleticism, loyalty and maturity. He is loved and remembered as a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. Last, but not least, he will always be remembered as a Marine. For his service and sacrifice, Eli is without question – a hero!
Surviving are his parents, Renny and Donna (Storms) Parker, Camden; a sister, Briana, Camden; two brothers, Isaiah, Ithaca, NY, Andrew, Camden; maternal grandparents, Richard and Virginia Storms, Blossvale, NY; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He also leaves behind “the love of his life,” Lauren Allen, and the entire Allen family in Fort Worth, TX.
The Parker family would like to express their deepest thanks and heartfelt gratitude to the Marines and friends of Eli who have fought for and will continue to fight to preserve the honor of our country and the U.S. Marine Corps. The family is also grateful to the people of Camden and surrounding communities for their incredible outpouring of support and love. A memorial fund has been established to assist with the Community Youth Center at the Abundant Life Community Church, which will be named “The Eli Parker Memorial Youth Center,” in Eli’s honor and memory. The family requests that contributions be sent to the Eli Parker Memorial Youth Center Fund, PO Box 215, Camden, NY 13316.