Early Life and Background
Ted Parker, a longtime resident and beloved figure in Lumberton, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. His departure marks the end of an era for the tight-knit Lumberton community, where he spent over six decades contributing to local development and civic engagement.
Born on March 15, 1945, in Robeson County, Ted Parker grew up during a transformative period in Lumberton's history. As the son of tobacco farmers, he learned the value of hard work and community service from an early age.
Professional Life and Achievements
Throughout his professional career, Ted Parker demonstrated exceptional leadership and business acumen:
- Founded Parker Construction Company in 1970
- Served as President of the Lumberton Chamber of Commerce (1985-1990)
- Recipient of the Lumberton Business Leader of the Year award (1992)
- Board member of First Bank Lumberton (1995-2010)
Impact on Local Construction Industry
The Ted Parker obituary Lumberton NC coverage highlights his significant contributions to the local construction industry. His company was responsible for numerous landmark projects:
- Lumberton City Hall renovation (1988)
- Robeson Community College expansion (1993)
- Multiple affordable housing developments
- Several commercial complexes along Roberts Avenue
Community Service and Leadership
Beyond his professional achievements, Ted Parker's commitment to community service defined his legacy:
- Two-term City Council member (1980-1988)
- Chairman of the Robeson County Fair Board (1990-2000)
- Founding member of the Lumberton Historical Society
- Active member of First Baptist Church for over 50 years
Charitable Works
The Ted Parker obituary Lumberton NC news emphasizes his dedication to charitable causes:
- Established the Parker Family Foundation in 1995
- Annual scholarship program for local high school students
- Support for the Robeson County Boys & Girls Club
- Regular contributor to local food banks and shelter programs
Family Life and Personal Interests
Ted Parker was a devoted family man who balanced his professional success with rich personal relationships:
- Married to Sarah Thompson Parker for 54 years
- Father to three children: Michael, David, and Elizabeth
- Grandfather to seven grandchildren
- Great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren
Hobbies and Interests
Beyond his professional and community work, Ted Parker was known for:
- Passion for gardening and maintaining prize-winning roses
- Amateur historian specializing in Robeson County history
- Dedicated golfer at Pinecrest Country Club
- Enthusiastic supporter of Lumberton High School sports
Legacy and Impact
The Ted Parker obituary Lumberton NC announcement reflects on his lasting impact on the community:
Professional Legacy
- Created over 1,000 jobs through his construction company
- Mentored dozens of young entrepreneurs
- Pioneered sustainable building practices in Robeson County
- Developed affordable housing initiatives
Community Legacy
- Established multiple scholarship programs
- Created youth mentorship opportunities
- Supported local arts and cultural programs
- Preserved historical landmarks
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Services
The family has announced the following arrangements:
- Visitation: November 15, 2024, 5-8 PM at First Baptist Church
- Funeral Service: November 16, 2024, 2 PM at First Baptist Church
- Private family burial at Meadowbrook Cemetery
- Memorial reception following the service
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to:
- The Ted Parker Memorial Scholarship Fund
- First Baptist Church Building Fund
- Robeson County Historical Society
- Local youth sports programs
Tributes and Condolences
The Ted Parker obituary Lumberton NC coverage includes numerous tributes from community leaders:
Local Officials
- Mayor of Lumberton: "A true visionary who shaped our city"
- County Commissioner: "His impact will be felt for generations"
- Chamber of Commerce President: "A mentor and friend to many"
Community Members
- Local business owners praise his mentorship
- Former employees share stories of his leadership
- Church members remember his faithful service
- Civic organizations acknowledge his contributions
Historical Context and Community Impact
Understanding Ted Parker's life requires context about Lumberton's development:
Economic Development
- Contributed to downtown revitalization
- Supported small business growth
- Promoted sustainable development
- Attracted new businesses to the area
Social Progress
- Advocated for inclusive community programs
- Supported educational initiatives
- Promoted cultural preservation
- Enhanced recreational facilities
Surviving Family Members
The Ted Parker obituary Lumberton NC announcement lists his surviving family:
Immediate Family
- Wife: Sarah Thompson Parker
- Children: Michael (Jane) Parker, David (Mary) Parker, Elizabeth (John) Williams
- Siblings: Robert Parker, Mary Parker Wilson
Extended Family
- Seven grandchildren
- Two great-grandchildren
- Multiple nieces and nephews
- Countless friends who became family
Memorial Events and Celebrations
The community plans several events to honor his memory:
Immediate Events
- Prayer service at First Baptist Church
- Community memorial gathering
- Youth sports tournament dedication
- Tree planting ceremony
Future Memorials
- Annual scholarship presentation
- Building dedication ceremony
- Historical society tribute
- Community service day
Conclusion
The Ted Parker obituary Lumberton NC news coverage reflects a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to influence future generations. His commitment to family, business excellence, and community service sets a standard for civic leadership. The loss of Ted Parker marks the end of an era for Lumberton, but his vision and values will continue to shape the community he loved so dearly.