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Adam Raleigh Obituary
Adam was born on September 20, 1986, in Honolulu, HI. In 1988 he moved with his family to Chapel hill, where he attended Seawell Elementary and McDougle Middle Schools, graduating from Chapel Hill High School in 2004. Adam played clarinet, tenor sax, and bassoon in the Chapel Hill High School Marching and Concert Bands all four years of his high school career. His band friends were among his closest.
He had a passion for marine sciences and knew more about sharks than any Chapel Hillian his age. He enjoyed fishing, always throwing back his catch. He loved animals, especially his dog Spunky and his mother's dog, Kenzie. Fond of music, he was a devotee of the group called Gorillaz. He read voraciously and was partial to Stephen King novels, science fiction, and the Harry Potter series. He was an enthusiastic gamer. Adam also enjoyed traveling abroad and became fluent in Russian.
Adam never met a stranger. From a very young age, he was equally at ease sitting down with his friends or having serious conversations with adults. People remarked on his kindness, intelligence, and compassion. His friends knew he was always there for them.
Adam is survived by his mother and father; his uncles and aunts, Donald S. and Beverly Sanders, Michael and Linda Raleigh, Marsha and Jay McCormick; cousins, Rebecca Raleigh, Mike Raleigh and Matthew McCormick; close family friends, Lawrence Champion, Stan Chojnacki, and Barbara Harris; and many, many more who loved Adam.
He was predeceased by grandparents, Arlene and Orin Sanders of Kirkwood, MO, and Lorraine and William Raleigh of Chicago, IL.
Adam was the light of our lives and a blessing for all the years we were able to have him.
A visitation will be held at Walkers Funeral Home, 120 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill (942-3861), on Wednesday, November 5, between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m.
The funeral service will take place on 10:00 a.m. Thursday, November 6, 2008 at United Church of Chapel Hill, 1321 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
In lieu of flowers, friends may make a contribution in Adam's name to the Chapel Hill High School Marching Band or to North Carolinians against Gun Violence.
They may also share their memories and photos on Adam's Facebook account under the address adamsraleighgmail.com (.)
Online Condolences may be sent to the family at www.walkersfuneralservice.com
Arrangements by Walker's Funeral Home, 120 W. Franklin Street Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Adam Raleigh
Melissa Little
November 11, 2008
Karen, I am so very sorry to hear about Adam. The last time you and I met, you talked about his upcoming senior year and all the interesting things he was doing. This is heartbreaking news. When you feel up to getting getting in touch, please contact me. I've left my contact information in the guest book.
Zellmer
November 10, 2008
To Adam's family -
You do not know us, but we will never forget Adam's kindness to our son, a year younger, as he entered the CHHS concert band knowing very little about the bassoon he was assigned to play. Our son had never had a lesson or a teacher who played bassoon. Adam was incredibly generous with his time, knowledge, and support. No one ever forgets anyone who is kind to their child.
Our thoughts are with you.
Drew Zellmer's family
Drew Zellmer's family
Eldon Carvey
November 6, 2008
Both Anne and I want to share with you that
we are both feeling terribly sad and shocked
to hear of Adam's death. We extend to you,
Don and Karen, and to the rest of Adam's
family and friends our deep sorrow for your
loss, and for the untumely end of a beautiful
young life.
Fondly,
Eldon and Anne Carvey
Mike, Pam, Jessica and Sarah Rogers
November 6, 2008
Our family will always have fond memories of Adam - He was a very special young man. Our hearts and prayers are with you, Karen and Don, for your loss. May God be with you, guide you, and give you peace.
Victor Friedman
November 6, 2008
Paul and I send you our most sincere condolences on this tragic loss. May the source of all strength grant you strength, and may Adam's memory be for a blessing.
Gaynelle Williamson
November 5, 2008
My deepest sympathy in the recent loss of your son.
Hal Fleming
November 5, 2008
Karen, I am very sorry to hear of your tragic loss. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Jim Carpenter
November 5, 2008
I remember fondly the time I spent as a Chapel Hill High School band parent and as a member of the Pit Crew. Daniel Carpenter was my son. I can't imagine what you, Karen and Don, are going through. My prayers are with you and your family.
Jerri Keller
November 5, 2008
My dear Karen -- my heart is breaking for you. There are no words to express the deep sorrow I feel. I am here for you in any way you need me. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. Much love, Jerri
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