BURGAW — Edward Harl “Eddie” Rivenbark, 74, left this earth for his heavenly home Monday, June 8, 2020, at Pender Memorial Hospital.
He was born July 2, 1945, in Wilmington, the son of the late Archie and Christine Morgan Rivenbark. Eddie is survived by his sister, Suzanne Rivenbark Parker, and her husband, Donnie; niece, Kim Esser, and her husband, Jon; nephew, Derek Parker, and his wife, Jenna; and many loving cousins. For over 50 years, Eddie was a member of Mount Holly Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher and usher.
Eddie received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Wilmington College (now UNC-W). He was a journeyman missionary with the International Mission Board teaching in Nyeri, Kenya, East Africa, for two years. He retired from teaching high school and middle school in Onslow County.
Known for his love of church, country and community, Eddie served as a medic in the U.S. Army, volunteered at Burgaw Elementary School and Pender County Museum and Historical Society. He was a gracious gentleman with a great love for people. He was a friend to all, even to strangers. Eddie was an avid history buff and could leave the listener spellbound with his knowledge and lessons. He was a giver, but always chose to remain anonymous. He leaves us with a legacy of love, and the importance of God, family and country.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, June 11, at Mount Holly Baptist Church Cemetery, 5551 U.S. Hwy 117 N., Burgaw, with the Rev. Merrell McKoy and the Rev. Dr. Horace Hawes officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Eddie’s memory to Mount Holly Baptist Church, 5551 U.S. Hwy 117 N., Burgaw, NC 28425; Pender County Christian Services, P.O. Box 84, Burgaw, NC 28425; and Pender County Library, P.O. Box 879, Burgaw, NC 28425.
Share online condolences with the family at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home.
