Introduction to Ted Parker Obituary Lumberton NC
Lumberton, NC lost one of its most beloved community pillars on October 15, 2024, when Ted Parker passed away at age 68, surrounded by his loving family at Southeastern Regional Medical Center. For over four decades, Ted transformed our tight-knit community through his boundless generosity and unwavering dedication to service.
More than just a business leader who helped shape downtown Lumberton’s revitalization, Ted was the friendly face who showed up first to help neighbors in need. His genuine smile and helping hand touched thousands of lives across Robeson County since he first opened Parker’s Hardware on Chestnut Street in 1982.
Early Life and Education of Ted Parker
Born on March 12, 1956, to James and Mary Parker, Ted grew up on Elm Street in the heart of Lumberton. His father’s small automotive repair shop taught him early lessons about honest work and treating everyone with respect, regardless of their background.
At Lumberton High School (Class of ’74), Ted’s natural leadership shined as student body president and captain of the baseball team. His history teacher, Mrs. Sarah Williams, sparked his lifelong passion for local heritage – a passion that later drove him to establish the Lumberton Historical Society in 1995.
After graduating with honors from UNC Pembroke in 1978 with a degree in Business Administration, Ted returned home with bigger dreams for his community. He often said, “Success isn’t what you achieve for yourself, but what you help others achieve.”
Professional Life and Business Leadership
Ted’s business acumen transformed Parker’s Hardware from a small family store into Robeson County’s leading supplier of building materials. But he never forgot his roots. During the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in 2016, Ted opened his warehouse as an emergency shelter, providing supplies at cost to hundreds of affected families.
Under his leadership as Chamber of Commerce president (2010-2015), downtown Lumberton saw the successful launch of 27 new small businesses. His innovative “Mentor Match” program paired experienced business owners with aspiring entrepreneurs, creating over 200 local jobs.
Ted Parker’s Contributions to the Community
Ted’s community impact extended far beyond business. As founder of the Lumberton Youth Sports League in 1985, he personally coached baseball for 25 years, mentoring over 500 young athletes. Many of “Coach Parker’s kids” went on to earn college scholarships, crediting his guidance for their success.
His monthly “Parker’s Community Cleanup Crew” mobilized volunteers to beautify neighborhoods, plant gardens, and assist elderly residents with home repairs. What started with 5 volunteers in 1990 grew to a network of 150 dedicated community members by 2024.
Every Thanksgiving, Ted organized the “Fill Every Plate” initiative, partnering with local restaurants to deliver hot meals to homebound seniors. Last year alone, the program served 1,200 holiday dinners.
Education Advocacy and Mentorship
Education remained close to Ted’s heart throughout his life. He established the Parker Promise Scholarship in 2000, providing full college funding for one first-generation student from Lumberton High School annually. To date, 24 students have graduated college through this program.
As a frequent guest speaker in local schools, Ted inspired students with his practical wisdom and encouragement. His popular “Dream Big, Start Small” workshops helped countless teens develop business plans and leadership skills.
Remembering Ted Parker: Stories from Friends and Family
“Dad never met a stranger,” shares his daughter Sarah Parker-Williams. “He remembered everyone’s name and something special about them. That’s just who he was – genuinely interested in people’s stories and always ready to help.”
His childhood friend Jake Thompson recalls their fishing trips to Lumber River: “Even at 12, Ted was organizing neighborhood kids to clean up the riverbank before we’d fish. He always said we had to leave places better than we found them.”
Mary Beth Parker, his wife of 45 years, remembers their first date at Fuller’s BBQ: “He spent half the time helping an elderly couple change their flat tire. That’s when I knew he was special.”
Community Leadership and Civic Engagement
Ted served three terms on the Lumberton City Council (2005-2017), championing infrastructure improvements and youth programs. His signature achievement was securing funding for the River Walk Park, which now hosts community events year-round.
During his tenure as Rotary Club president (2012-2014), annual scholarship funding doubled through innovative fundraising initiatives. He also launched the “Tools for Schools” program, providing supplies to underserved students.
Crisis Leadership and Natural Disaster Response
When Hurricane Florence hit in 2018, Ted transformed his hardware store into an emergency resource center. He coordinated with FEMA, organized volunteer teams, and personally delivered generators to residents with medical needs.
His crisis management experience proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic, as he helped establish the Lumberton Small Business Relief Fund, which distributed over $500,000 in emergency grants.
Funeral Services and Memorials for Ted Parker
Visitation will be held Friday, October 27, from 5-8 PM at First Baptist Church of Lumberton, where Ted served as deacon for 30 years. The celebration of life service follows on Saturday, October 28, at 11 AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Ted Parker Memorial Scholarship Fund at Lumberton High School, continuing his legacy of supporting local education.
Impact of Ted Parker’s Legacy on Lumberton, NC
Ted’s vision for community development lives on through the organizations he strengthened and the lives he touched. The annual Ted Parker Community Service Award, established by the Chamber of Commerce, recognizes individuals who exemplify his spirit of servant leadership.
His environmental initiatives resulted in the planting of over 1,000 trees across Lumberton, with the new Ted Parker Memorial Grove at Bill Sapp Recreation Center serving as a living tribute to his conservation efforts.
Professional Achievements and Recognition
Throughout his career, Ted received numerous accolades, including:
| 2020 | North Carolina Small Business Person of the Year |
| 2018 | Robeson County Lifetime Achievement Award |
| 2015 | Governor’s Volunteer Service Award |
| 2010 | Lumberton Citizen of the Year |
Yet those who knew him best say he cared more about making a difference than receiving recognition.
Personal Life and Family
Ted is survived by his loving wife Mary Beth; children Sarah (John) Williams and Michael (Jennifer) Parker; five grandchildren; sister Patricia Parker-Johnson; and countless friends who became family through his generous spirit.
His Sunday family dinners were legendary, bringing together not just relatives but anyone who needed a place to belong. “There was always room for one more at Dad’s table,” Michael Parker recalls.
Continuing the Legacy
The Ted Parker Community Foundation, established in his honor, will continue his work through youth mentorship programs, small business support, and environmental initiatives. Annual fundraising goals of $250,000 will sustain these vital community programs.
Local leaders have announced plans to rename the downtown revitalization project “The Ted Parker District” in recognition of his transformative impact on Lumberton’s economic development.
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A Final Farewell
Ted Parker’s passing leaves a void in Lumberton that can never truly be filled. Yet his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the community he helped build, and the spirit of service he inspired in others.
As he often said, “Community isn’t just where you live – it’s what you give back to make it better.” Ted Parker gave Lumberton his very best, and our community is forever richer for having known him.
The family welcomes memories and condolences to be shared at www.lumbertonfuneralhome.com. Memorial services are being handled by Johnson Funeral Home, where staff is available 24/7 at (910) 555-0123 to assist with arrangements.
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