Theodore Parker Stanwood

Theodore Parker Stanwood, better known as Ted or Big Ted, passed peacefully on Friday January 20th, at the age of 75.  He was born in Bridgeport Connecticut but grew up in Newburyport Massachusetts.  His parents were Joseph Stanwood and Carolyn (Benoit) Stanwood.  Ted went to the Immaculate Conception Catholic School through the 8th grade, then attended and graduated from Newburyport High School. He loved music and was in a high school garage band called the Shadows.  Ted played the drums in the band and they were often the winners of the Battle of the Bands at the Salisbury Beach frolics.  Over the last 11 years, the Shadows have reunited every summer to perform at “A Walk Back in Time”, raising funds to support music education in the local public schools, something that had a particular importance to Ted.

He moved to Salisbury Massachusetts in the 1970’s where he lived out his life with his wife (his high school sweetheart) of 55 years, Carole Francis (Furbush) Stanwood, and his two children, Dawn Marie (Stanwood) Murnahan, and Theodore Parker Stanwood Jr. (Teddy).  Along with his wife and children, Ted is survived by his daughter in law, Pauline (McGee) Stanwood, his son in law, Everett (Sam) Murnahan, his three siblings, older brother, Joseph Stanwood and his wife Raelene; his younger sister Gail Stanwood, his younger brother Richard Stanwood, and his wife Linda; his four grandchildren, George McGee, Cecelia McGee, Desiree Phillips, and Kaitlin Murnahan, and four great grandchildren, Destany Phillips, Damien Phillips, Draven Phillips and Evaleena Wonderling.

To say Ted loved and was loved is a mighty understatement.  He was often referred to as “the mayor” because he couldn’t go anywhere and not bump into someone he knew.  He always engaged in real conversations, everything had some significance or relevance with him.  

He was a mechanic by trade and retired from the city of Amesbury’s DPW department at the age of 73.  He was touted as one of the best mechanics around and the city of Amesbury’s Police, Fire and DPW departments often commented on the level of his craftsmanship and abilities that kept their vehicles running well.

One of Ted’s biggest passions in life was cars. He was a car fanatic, Classic cars, Hot rods, antique cars, he loved them all.  He was a member of the Cam Snappers Car Club for over 40 years.  Proudly his son Teddy is following in those footsteps and keeping his passion alive.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on Wednesday January 25, 2023 at the Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950. His Services and Burial will be private.

For directions or to offer online condolences please visit www.tlcfuneralhome.com 

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