Leslie Parker McCarter

Born in Altadena, CA on February 20, 1947 to James and Phyllis Parker, Leslie grew up in Southern California with her two sisters and loved using the exploding metropolitan region as her playground. When not enjoying her time in the Girl Scout’s, Leslie and her sisters could be found playing hide and seek and kickball on their kid-populated cul-de-sac. Leslie often recalled the joy and amazement of watching Disneyland being built from beyond the fences as a young girl. She was on the Arcadia High School drill team and had the honor of working on several Rose Bowl floats over many years. Summers and weekends were spent on Balboa Island and at the family getaway in San Clemente enjoying the sunny beaches. A typical Easter would find the family enjoying the splendor of Hotel Coronado. In later years, time spent at Santa Anita Racetrack was always on the top of her list. In 1969, she graduated with a degree in history from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA.

Leslie’s fascination with US and World history was the motivator for countless trips around America and across the globe. There wasn’t an animal she didn’t love and throughout her life, there was always more than one four-legged companion by her side. Throughout her years raising her children in Salinas and Carmel Valley, CA, Leslie volunteered with several animal organizations, including the SPCA for Monterey County. Her avid passion for reading and Monterey Peninsula history was the perfect combination to become a docent at the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas. Upon moving to Virginia in 2012, her love of US history took new shape with visits to the many stunning Civil War museums around her. Literally on the other side of her backyard fence, Leslie would look out on the ‘First Day at Chancellorsville’ battlefield. To adjust to the new climate of the east coast, you would always find Leslie doing what she loved her whole life, swimming! Thus, no surprise Leslie absolutely loved the ocean and embarked on countless excursions to spot whales and dolphins.

Leslie is survived by her daughter, Kindra and son-in-law James; son, Brandon and daughter-in-law Rachel; six grandchildren, Gavin, Colby, Carter, Taylor, Cody and Colton and sisters Chris and Julie.

A private ceremony will be held with family on Leslie’s most beloved island, Maui.

In lieu of flowers, please considering donating in Leslie’s name to SPCA Monterey County, Leslie’s favorite organization: https://www.spcamc.org