Morehead City – George Saxon Parrott, 67, passed away peacefully surrounded by friends on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House in Newport, NC.

A graveside service will be conducted Sunday at 2 pm at Westview Cemetery with Kermit Braswell officiating.

George was born at Parrott Hospital in Kinston, NC on June 28, 1956. He was the youngest of four sons born to Dr. William Thomas Parrott, Jr. and Fannie Mae Sellers Parrott. George attended Arendell Parrott Academy and Woodberry Forest School. He graduated from Kinston High School and attended the Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service in Decatur, Georgia where he served as the Student Body President before graduating.

George was the owner and operator of Parrott Funeral Home in Kinston. He was the former President of the NC Board of Funeral Service and previously served as the Director of the NC Funeral Director’s Association. In later years, George was the owner and operator of the Island Grill in Atlantic Beach, NC, Churchill’s Pub in Raleigh, NC and Parrott’s on Eleventh in Morehead City, NC. He also owned and operated several jewelry stores and gift shops through the years.

George was a treasured staff member during his friend Senator Harold Hardison’s run for Lt. Governor. George also served as the Senior Special Assistant to lifelong friend, Rufus Edmisten, former Secretary of State. In 1996, George became the Democratic nominee for the US House of Representatives which resulted in a luncheon with former President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore. George served as a board member for the Queen Street Methodist Church in Kinston and was on the Board of Directors for the Foundation of Good Business in Raleigh.

He is preceded in death by his father, Dr. William Thomas Parrott, Jr.; mother, Fannie Mae Sellers Parrott; and his non-biological, beloved second mother, Doris Phillips.

George is survived by his three brothers, Tommy, Charlie and Robert; three nephews; and one niece.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mary’s Kitchen, c/o St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 800 Rountree St., Kinston, NC 28501, Ph: (252) 523-6146, Make A Wish Foundation, https: wish.org/ or the SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House, 100 Big Rock Weigh, Newport, NC 28570, Ph: (252) 777-4201.

George was a very caring person who was loved by many. He leaves behind many wonderful memories of his sharp wit, his sense of love and empathy for others and his love of animals. George’s friends are all very grateful for the compassionate and unequaled end of life care he received from the Crystal Coast Hospice House.

Arrangements by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.edwardsfhc.com.