Alison Parker Obituary Released: WDBJ Reporter Service Held Private – Scholarship Fund Set Up
MStars News has learned that the obituary for WDBJ reporter, Alison Parker, has been released by her mother, Barbara Parker, revealing that a private service has been arranged for family and friends to say goodbye, as scholarships in her honor were set up.
WCTI 12, in Jacksonville, North Carolina was Parker's first job in television news. Parker's mother emailed the news site a copy of the obituary where it talked about the murdered reporter's life, and past accomplishments.
Parker, 24, was an accomplished swimmer, dancer and gymnast, who loved spending time with her family. She graduated from Martinsville High School in 2009, and was a student at the Piedmont Governors School for Math, Science and Technology, where her team won a robotics award.
Parker graduated from James Madison University and was an intern for The United Way in her hometown and at WDBJ 7 in Roanoke, Virginia, where she later was employed and lost her life.
A number of scholoarships have been arranged in the reporter's honor, including the ones below:
"JMU Scholarship Alison B Parker Memorial Fund
Donations for the Alison B Parker Memorial Fund can be made online at the link above or checks for the Alison Parker Memorial Scholarship can be made payable to the JMU Foundation.
JMU Advancement Gifts and Records
MSC 3603
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
ATTN: Alison Parker Memorial Scholarship
Patrick Henry Community College Alison Bailey Parker Scholarship
Donations for the Alison Bailey Parker Memorial Scholarship can be made online at the link above or by cash or check to the Patrick Henry Community College Foundation, 645 Patriot Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112. For additional information, call (276) 656-0250.
Valley Stars and Salvation Army of Roanoke
As mentioned, Alison was rehearsing to be a contestant in the Valley Stars benefit for the Salvation Army of Roanoke Turning Point. To donate to the Valley Stars and Salvation Army of Roanoke in Alison's name, visit the link above and scroll down until you see Alison's red kettle..."
CLICK HERE TO READ ENTIRE OBITUARY
MStars News previously reported that Parker was killed along with WDBJ cameraman Adam Ward when an ex employee, Vester Flanagan, also known as Bryce Williams shot Parker and Ward during a live broadcast early Wednesday morning on Aug. 26.
Parker was interviewing chamber of commerce executive Vicki Gardner when Flanagan shot all three of the victims, while taping the entire rampage. Gardner survived the shooting and is currently recovering in a local hospital. Flanagan shot and killed himself after police found him on Interstate 66.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and employees of the slain victims.