Ted Parker Obituary Lumberton NC

Introduction

Lumberton, North Carolina native Teddy “Ted” Dale Parker was 71 years old when he died on January 9, 2024. He was a respected businessman and beloved member of the community. His rise from humble origins to become a prominent figure in the manufactured housing industry is a testament to his legacy of perseverance, creativity, and significant influence on his community. For those seeking more details, the Ted Parker Obituary Lumberton NC offers a deeper look into his remarkable life and enduring legacy.​

Early Life and Family

A native of Robeson County, North Carolina, Ted Parker was born to parents Marvin L. “Bud” and Eunice Grace B. on January 6, 1953. Ted grew up in a tobacco farming family with his four brothers, Keith, Wayne, Tim, and Jeff. They all learned the importance of working hard and never giving up. Christopher Lee Parker and Chandra Lynn Parker were born to him and Victoria Stone. The Parker grandkids—Sophie Lia, J. Kristian Parker Leggett, and Laiken Parker King—were also much loved by Ted. ​

 Professional Journey and Achievements

Ted got his start in the workforce at Bonanza Homes of Lumberton, where he was a mobile home specialist. Ted Parker Home Sales was founded in 1980, marking his entrepreneurial venture. His dogged persistence and astute business sense allowed him to grow the company into a leading independent dealership in the country. He became well-known and respected in southeastern North Carolina thanks to his energetic television ads in the 80s and 90s. As a transition, Ted sold his company to General Electric and Ardshiel, an investment firm affiliated with GE, in 1998. He then ventured into land development, specifically coastal subdivisions.

 ​The Ted Parker Mansion

An expansive mansion on N.C. 72 in Lumberton, which spanned 13,000 square feet, was one of Ted’s notable ventures. The mansion, which was built on 115 acres of beautiful land and cost an estimated $12 million, had six bedrooms, ten bathrooms, a home theater, an elevator, and two boat ramps. As a result of Ted’s innovative thinking in business and investing, Chinese investors eventually bought this property. 

​Personal Life and Community Engagement

Ted kept his feet on the ground and his personality friendly despite all of his professional success. Others who knew and worked with him remember him with affection as a “real person” and “down to earth.” By regularly going fishing and golfing, he kept in touch with friends he had made throughout his life. Those fortunate enough to have known Ted will never forget his contagious enthusiasm and tireless work ethic. 

​Passing and Tributes

Ted Parker’s home in Calabash, North Carolina, was the site of his passing. Many paid tribute to him, highlighting his generous spirit and substantial contributions to the industry, as they mourned his departure. A former colleague and friend of Ted’s, Marty Wright, characterized him as “the hardest-working man I ever met,” praising his dogged persistence in all that he did. ​

 Business Expansion and Success in the Housing Industry

Establishing Sale of Ted Parker’s Houses

When Ted Parker founded Ted Parker Home Sales in 1980, it was the zenith of his entrepreneurial journey. He turned his family business into one of the biggest independent manufactured home dealerships in America by keeping a close eye on market trends and never compromising on quality. He established a solid reputation for his brand in southeastern North Carolina through well-planned advertisements on television and radio.

Impact on the Manufactured Housing Sector

A visionary who altered the course of the manufactured housing industry, Ted Parker was more than simply a successful businessman. Many families were able to afford mobile homes because of his approach, which prioritized quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction. Affordable home ownership became a reality for low-income families thanks to his creative financing options.

Transaction with General Electric and Entry into the Real Estate Market

A strategic decision was made by Ted Parker in 1998 to sell Ted Parker Home Sales to General Electric (GE) and Ardshiel, an investment firm affiliated with GE, following years of success. At this point in his career, he decided to concentrate on real estate development instead of other things. His ability to adapt in the business world was demonstrated by his investments in coastal subdivisions and land development.

Real Estate Ventures and Investments

The Development of Coastal Subdivisions

Ted Parker shifted his focus to coastal real estate projects after leaving the manufactured home industry. His developments were all over North Carolina, and he was particularly successful at luring wealthy investors with his prime waterfront properties. The regional economy benefited greatly from his projects, which in turn increased the demand for homes in the area.

Luxury Property Acquisitions

One of Ted Parker’s many accomplishments was his savvy investment in prime real estate. His Lumberton mansion, which was one of his most impressive projects, was 13,000 square feet and became a symbol of his success and astute investment strategies. His business acumen was further demonstrated when he sold the $12 million mansion he had constructed to Chinese investors.

Diversification in the Housing Market

Ted Parker dabbled in commercial real estate in addition to large-scale residential developments, making investments in properties that bolstered the local business ecosystem. He diversified his wealth and expanded his influence in the industry by owning rental units, office spaces, and community centers in his real estate portfolio.

Philanthropic Contributions and Community Engagement

 Support for Local Charities

Ted Parker’s dedication to charity and public service did not waver, even after he achieved great success in business. He was very involved with a number of local charities, helping to guarantee that low-income people could afford housing, schools, and doctors.

Employment and Economic Growth

Many people, not only those in Lumberton, found work thanks to Ted Parker’s business endeavors. Affordable housing and regional economic stability were both aided by his leadership in the housing industry. His honesty, work ethic, and commitment to creating a pleasant workplace are qualities that will be remembered by both employees and business associates.

Youth Development and Mentorship

Mentoring aspiring business owners was one of Parker’s less publicized but no less significant accomplishments. Sharing his insights and experience, he helped those who wanted to join the real estate and housing industries get off the ground.

Personal Life and Legacy Beyond Business

A Passion for the Outdoors

Outdoor activities, fishing, and golf were some of Ted Parker’s favorite pastimes. With his loved ones by his side, he frequently indulged in these pastimes during his free time. Even in his real estate ventures, he frequently used sustainable and environmentally friendly methods because of his deep love for the outdoors.

Close-Knit Family and Friendships

Ted put his family and friends first, no matter how hectic his work life got. The way he set up his companies to leave a legacy for his children and wife, Victoria Stone, was a reflection of his deep connection to them.

A Down-to-Earth Personality

Ted Parker maintained his modesty and friendliness despite his tremendous success. He was characterized by those who knew him as charming, honest, and eager to lend a hand. Both his professional and personal networks held him in high esteem because of his humility in the face of his many accomplishments.

Future Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders

A Role Model in the Housing Industry

For aspiring real estate and manufactured home entrepreneurs, Ted Parker’s story is a beacon of light. He set an example for entrepreneurs who want to succeed in the long run by being able to respond quickly to shifts in the market and by never stopping to innovate.

Encouraging Risk-Taking and Innovation

For Ted, the key to success was being willing to change things up and take some chances. His foresight in selling his company and jumping into real estate at the height of his career serves as an example to aspiring company executives about the importance of being one step ahead of market trends.

A Legacy That Lives On

The influence of Ted Parker on the industry and the community is immense, and it has only grown since his death. His leadership, generosity, and business acumen have left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial world, and his legacy will endure long after he has passed away in Lumberton, North Carolina.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Where was Ted Parker born?

Ted Parker was born in Robeson County, North Carolina.

2. What industry was Ted Parker known for?

Ted Parker was a leader in the manufactured housing industry and later transitioned into real estate development.

3. What was the size of Ted Parker’s mansion?

His mansion in Lumberton, NC, was 13,000 square feet and built at a cost of $12 million.

4. Did Ted Parker contribute to charity?

Yes, Ted Parker was known for supporting local charities and mentoring young entrepreneurs.

5. What was Ted Parker’s greatest business achievement?

His biggest achievement was building Ted Parker Home Sales into one of the nation’s largest independent dealerships before selling it to General Electric.

Also Read: Best Job Boards in Canada & Top Job Search Strategies in Toronto: Find Your Next Opportunity

Conclusion

Ted Parker’s life story is an inspiration because of his dogged determination, tireless labor, and steadfast devotion to his community. An inspiration to many, Ted worked his way up from humble beginnings on a tobacco farm to become a major player in the manufactured housing industry. His lasting influence in Lumberton and beyond showcases the incredible change that can be made by a single person with resilience and kindness. To learn more about his remarkable journey and legacy, you can find detailed insights in the Ted Parker Obituary Lumberton NC.