Carolyn M. (Larsen) Parker

Carolyn Parker (née Larsen), beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the age of 90.

Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Carolyn was the daughter of Gertrude (Davis) Larsen of Boston and Sidney Larsen of Stavanger, Norway. She was educated at Somerville High School and furthered her knowledge through courses at the New England Banking Institute, a reflection of the quiet determination that defined Carolyn throughout her life.

Carolyn was a woman of extraordinary generosity, always giving of herself without hesitation or expectation. As a single mother she worked six and sometimes seven days a week to provide for her family, a testament to a work ethic that never wavered and a love for her children that knew no bounds. She had a colorful personality and was never one to leave you guessing about how she felt, a quality those who knew her found as refreshing as it was entertaining. She had a deep love for animals, especially her cats, and took great joy in baking apple pies and sharing them with those she loved. A devoted fan of Filene's and Macy's, she treasured every chance she got to go. In true Carolyn fashion, she thought nothing of brewing a fresh pot of coffee at 9:00 in the evening and sleeping like a baby afterward. It was that kind of resilient, cheerful spirit that made her so easy to love.

She is survived by her five children: Neal Parker, Cindy Parker, Deborah Cahill, Karen Parker, and Eric Parker, all of whom she loved deeply. She was preceded in death by her husband.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 11th at 12:00 PM at Glenwood Cemetery in Maynard, Massachusetts.

Carolyn will be remembered not for what she had, but for how freely she gave: her time, her warmth, and her love.