Thaddeus Andre Parker

Ted Parker, Director of Vendor Diversity and Community Outreach with Ajax Building Corporation, a lifelong resident of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away at the age of 72 on January 18, 2025 at his home after his battle with a brief illness.

He was preceded in death by his father Willie Fred Parker, and his mother Dorothy Raines Parker.

Ted was born at FAMU Hospital on June 18, 1952. He attended Leon County public schools and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years Karen Wilson Parker, his son, Craig Parker (Wife Una-Kariim Cross), daughter, Kristen Parker, daughter, Tamara Chavis (husband Will Chavis), son, Nicholas Parker, his daughter, Kayla Parker; his sisters, Wanda Parker Jackson and Winnie Parker Heggins; and his 5 adoring grandchildren: Madel, Kristopher, Darius, Shari, and Martin. His numerous nieces and nephews will continue his legacy.

Ted served in the U.S. Army. He was a 10th degree black belt, a Grand Master of Shinjimasu, and the founder of Shinji Goju. He was very proud of the fact that so many of his students excelled in their chosen field and in life.

He loved gardening, reading, and building things, but most of all loved his children and his grandchildren.

When you touch a person, you touch their lineage............Ted Parker