Stephen John Parker Sr.

Stephen John Parker, Sr. late of Lunenburg, MA passed away peacefully on March 4th, 2025, after a brief illness at the age of 62. He is survived by his parents, Ron and Carolyn Parker of Belmont and Chatham.

Stephen grew up in Lexington, where he was proud of his lineage relating him to Captain John Parker, and spent the later years of his childhood living in Belmont. He began his farming career in Concord before settling in Lunenburg, where he established and ran Parker Farm for over 20 years. In addition to serving local customers, his farm produce was widely distributed to local restaurants, farmers markets and Boston area food pantries. He also was among the first in the area to institute Consumer Supported Agriculture (CSA). He was beloved by his farmers market customers and CSA shareholders, who looked forward to their weekly farm share and Stephen’s genuine warmth, listening ear and humorous antidotes. Stephen was passionate about farming and connecting with his customers. As a hobby, he enjoyed harvesting exotic mushrooms for both his own as well as his customers’ appetite. He had a passion for cooking and enjoyed sharing recipes for the vegetables he grew. He was fond of fishing, watching sports and enjoyed listening to music, especially blues, bluegrass, gospel, rock, and heavy metal.

Farming was not his only passion. Stephen was a talented, self-taught musician, proficient in both bass guitar and drums. He was a founding member of several bands including “Strange Flesh,” as a drummer and vocalist, and “Steve the Farmer and the Murder Balladeers,” as lead guitarist and vocals. He loved to share and teach music. His bands played at venues around the country including Knoxville, Memphis, Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Providence, Burlington, and Boston. Steve had a wide circle of friends and left behind a legacy of service, astonishing grit and an impeccable work ethic. He will always be remembered for his hard work, his sharp wit and cutting sense of humor.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his son, Stephen, Jr., his former wife and friend, Heather, both of Concord, his sisters Laurie McKittrick (Michael) of Quincy and Julie Jordan (John) of Scituate, and nephews John and Matthew Jordan, niece Hannah Jordan, as well as many cousins, especially John, Dean, David and Karl Ivester, who were like second brothers to him. He is predeceased by his brother Ron of Fresno, CA.

Donations in Stephen’s memory may be made to the Lunenburg Community Food Pantry. https://www.lunenburgfoodpantry.org

A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 2pm at the Gore Place (Carriage House), 52 Gore Street, Waltham, MA, 02453.