Lillian Ruth Center

LaGrange – Lillian Ruth Center, 78, passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, September 20, at 4pm at Trinity FWB Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Lillian, daughter of the late James G. and Ruth D. Parks, was a native of New Bern and lived in various places due to her father serving in the military. While living in Virginia Beach, VA, she met Ernest Center and they were married June 12, 1967. They moved around due to Ernest's call into the ministry and eventually made LaGrange their home. Lillian worked as a respiratory therapist, including UNC Lenoir and RHA Howell-Tar River. She was a member of Trinity FWB Church as was active with Operation Christmas Child. She had a heart for children and was always involved in children's ministries wherever she lived.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Rev. Ernest M. Center; children, Sheri C. Vaccaro (Daniel), Shelley L. Center, all of Lagrange, and Stephen L. Center of Mt. Olive; grandchildren, Karen E. Geddie and Cooper W. Center; brother, James W. "Buz" Parks (Wanda) of Polkton; and many extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity FWB Church, 6262 Washington St, La Grange, NC 28551 to assist with Operation Christmas Child.