ted parker obituary LUMBERTON, NC – Ted Parker, a prominent figure in North Carolina’s mobile home industry and the founder of Ted Parker Home Sales in Lumberton, has passed away at the age of 71. He died on Tuesday at his residence in Calabash, leaving behind a rich legacy that impacted many lives.
Parker was not just a businessman; he was a familiar face on local television, especially during the 1980s and 1990s, where his memorable advertisements showcased his thriving manufactured home business. His success in this sector made him a millionaire and a respected name in southeastern North Carolina.
Beyond his business accomplishments, Parker was also known for his grand residence, the Ted Parker Mansion, a sprawling 13,000-square-foot estate located on 115 acres along N.C. 72 in Lumberton. This iconic property, once the epitome of luxury, was later sold to Chinese investors.
Colleagues and friends remember Parker not just for his wealth but for his approachable nature and down-to-earth demeanor. Victor Brewington, who spent nearly a decade working for Parker, expressed the deep admiration he held for him, stating, “We loved him.” Brewington noted that despite Parker’s immense success, he remained grounded and connected with his roots, never losing sight of where he came from.
Parker’s journey began as the son of tobacco farmers. Before launching his own business in 1980, he honed his skills at Bonanza Homes of Lumberton. His determination and hard work eventually led him to become one of the largest independent mobile home dealers in the nation, a feat that seems unparalleled today.
In 1998, Parker sold his company to General Electric and its affiliate, Ardshiel, and shifted his focus toward land development, particularly in coastal subdivisions.
He is survived by his wife, Vickie, and two children, Chris and Chandra. Friends and former employees recall him as a hard worker with an infectious personality who remained dedicated to his craft, even in his later years. Marty Wright, a former colleague, remarked, “He was a legend. He was just the best.”
An official obituary is expected to be published in The Robesonian soon. For those who knew him or were influenced by his work, Parker’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts and minds of many.
