Introduction
Ted Parker of Lumberton, NC, is a name that resonates with success, entrepreneurship, and resilience. Known for his impact on the mobile home industry, Ted Parker built a business empire that shaped the lives of many in North Carolina and beyond. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a major player in the manufactured housing industry is a story of determination, smart business strategies, and a deep connection to his roots.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the life, career, and legacy of Ted Parker, his contributions to the business world, and how he became a well-known figure in Lumberton, NC.
The Early Years: A Foundation of Hard Work
Ted Parker was born in Robeson County, North Carolina, into a hardworking family. His early years were spent in the tobacco fields, where he learned the value of perseverance and grit. Like many successful entrepreneurs, Ted understood the importance of work ethic from a young age, and that foundation played a critical role in shaping his career.
Before starting his own business, he gained valuable experience working with Bonanza Homes of Lumberton. This job introduced him to the mobile home industry, giving him insights into customer needs, sales tactics, and the housing market. He took these lessons to heart and set out to create something bigger and better on his own terms.
The Rise of Ted Parker Home Sales
In 1980, Ted Parker took a bold step by launching Ted Parker Home Sales. His goal was simple yet ambitious: to provide high-quality, affordable manufactured homes to families in North Carolina and surrounding states.
His business quickly took off due to his innovative marketing strategies and commitment to customer service. One of the most memorable aspects of his brand was his engaging television commercials. These ads made Ted Parker a household name, showcasing his charismatic personality and reinforcing trust among potential buyers.
As his company grew, so did its reputation. By the late 1990s, Ted Parker Home Sales had become one of the largest independent mobile home dealerships in the country, serving thousands of customers. The company’s success eventually attracted major corporate interest, leading to its sale in 1998 to General Electric and Ardshiel, a GE-affiliated investment firm. This marked a significant milestone in Parker’s career, highlighting his ability to build and scale a business to national prominence.
The Mansion: A Symbol of Success
One of the most notable testaments to Ted Parker’s success was his luxurious mansion in Lumberton, NC. Built in the 1990s, this 13,000-square-foot estate sat on 115 acres and featured:
- Six bedrooms and ten bathrooms
- A built-in barber chair in one of the bathrooms
- A home theater
- An elevator
- Two private boat ramps
- A sauna
- Chandeliers originally crafted for singer Michael Bolton
Inspired by a Puerto Rican resort, the mansion was a symbol of Parker’s achievements. However, as the mobile home industry faced challenges, Parker’s business took a hit. In 1999, Ted Parker Home Sales filed for bankruptcy, leading to the closure of numerous dealerships and the layoff of hundreds of workers. Eventually, Parker sold the mansion to Chinese investors, marking the end of an era.
Transition to Land Development
After his mobile home business closed, Parker shifted his focus to land development along the North Carolina coast. This new venture allowed him to utilize his real estate expertise in a different capacity. Even in the face of setbacks, Parker proved that his entrepreneurial spirit remained strong.
While he may not have had the same level of public visibility as before, those who knew him understood that he remained deeply involved in business. His ability to adapt and reinvent himself showcased the resilience that had defined his entire career.
Personal Life and Community Impact
Beyond his business success, Ted Parker was a devoted family man. He was married to Victoria Stone Parker, and together they had two children, Christopher and Chandra. He was also a proud grandfather to three grandchildren: Laiken Parker King, J. Kristian Parker Leggett, and Sophie Lia Parker.
Those who knew Parker personally often described him as down-to-earth and approachable. Despite his wealth, he never forgot his humble beginnings and treated everyone with respect. He understood what it was like to start with nothing and work toward building something substantial.
His community contributions, business acumen, and larger-than-life personality made him a legend in Lumberton and beyond.
Overcoming Challenges: A Lesson in Resilience
No successful entrepreneur’s journey is without challenges, and Ted Parker was no exception. The bankruptcy of his company in 1999 was a major setback, but he didn’t let it define him. Instead, he pivoted into a new industry and continued working toward new goals.
This resilience is what made Parker truly remarkable. He understood that business is unpredictable, but persistence and adaptability are what separate long-term success from failure.
Remembering Ted Parker
Ted Parker passed away on January 9, 2024, at the age of 71. His passing marked the end of an era for many in Lumberton, NC, and the broader business community. Those who worked with him, learned from him, and were impacted by his business remember him as a pioneer in the mobile home industry and a generous figure within his community.
His life’s story is a reminder that success isn’t just about financial gain—it’s about vision, hard work, and the impact you leave behind.
Conclusion
Ted Parker of Lumberton, NC, built a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. From the tobacco fields to business success, from a grand mansion to industry challenges, his story is one of ambition, resilience, and reinvention.
His contributions to the mobile home industry and real estate development, combined with his community presence, make him an unforgettable figure in North Carolina’s business history.
For those who aspire to achieve success, Ted Parker’s journey serves as an inspiration: with hard work, smart decisions, and the willingness to adapt, anything is possible.
