Sending my heartfelt condolences to the Parker family on the loss of your husband and father. His legacy will live on through your cherished memories and the many lives he impacted through education and scouting.
Theodore J. "Ted" Parker
November 24, 1938 ~ March 8, 2026
Born in:
Bronx, NY
Resided in:
Oakton, VA
Theodore “Ted” J. Parker, 87, of Oakton, VA, passed away March 8, 2026. Born in the Bronx and raised in New Hampshire, Ted was a graduate of Assumption College and a doctoral student at Boston College. He served with honor as a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves.
Ted’s passion for education began in the classroom. He taught at schools in Holden and Hingham, MA, prior to joining the Massachusetts State Department of Education. Part of Ted’s distinguished 40-year career in education included 24 years with the U.S. Department of Education, from 1976 until his retirement in 2000 as the Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education.
A longtime Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 1983 in Oakton, VA, he guided and mentored dozens of young men, sharing his love of nature and steady wisdom. An avid Yankees fan and longtime seasonal resident of Edgartown, on Martha’s Vineyard Island, he found his greatest joy in the outdoors and with his family.
In retirement, Ted remained an active and valued member of his community, taking classes and serving as a highly respected moderator for the Great Decisions program at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. He found great fulfillment in fostering thoughtful, meaningful discussions on current events and global affairs.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Marlene Parker, in a remarkable partnership defined by loving commitment and friendship. He is also survived by his daughter Karen Parker, and son David Parker and his sister, Mary Laverdure of Groveland, MA. Ted was a steady source of strength for his family and a respected voice in his community. His curiosity, leadership, and kindness will live through the family he cherished and the many students, Scouts, and friends he inspired throughout his life.
Services will be held at Vale United Methodist Church, 11528 Vale Road, Oakton, VA 22124, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life Luncheon in the Fellowship Hall. If you plan on attending, please RSVP to jan_burket@hotmail.com
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Ted’s honor to the following organizations:
* OLLI at George Mason University: Supporting the fund to continue the mission of lifelong learning. olli.gmu.edu, then click on Donate.
* Boy Scouts of America (Now – Scouting America), National Capital Area Council. Supporting the mentorship of the next generation of leaders. ncacscouting.org then click on Donate
Services
Memorial Service: April 18, 2026 11:00 am
Vale United Methodist Church
11528 Vale Rd.
Oakton, VA 22124
703-938-7440
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2026-04-18 11:00:00
2026-04-18 11:00:00
TheodoreJ. "Ted"ParkerMemorial Service
Memorial Service
11528 Vale Rd.,Oakton, VA 22124
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