Linda L. Parker found her life transformed by an unexpected sense of purpose after discovering the small town of Bedford, Virginia. Moved by the profound legacy of the Bedford Boys, 19 young men who lost their lives on the first day of the Normandy invasion, Ms. Parker, alongside her husband Ken, founded the Bedford Boys Tribute Center located in Bedford. Though they had no familial ties to the town or its World War II history, their commitment to preserving the memory of these soldiers has become the centerpiece of their shared mission. As co-owner and curator of the center, Ms. Parker has helped create a space for education, remembrance, and reflection—ensuring that future generations understand the human cost of freedom. As the adage says, “Freedom is not free.”
Ms. Parker graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her academic background laid the foundation for a successful career in the financial services sector, where she and her husband specialized in estate planning and trust work. This experience gave her invaluable insight into helping individuals manage transitions and preserve their legacies. The skills she developed in that field, particularly her attention to detail, empathetic communication, and ability to manage sensitive matters, have proven essential in her historical preservation work at the Bedford Boys Tribute Center.
Shifting from finance to curating a museum and tribute space required vision and dedication. Ms. Parker embraced the challenge by immersing herself in the stories of the Bedford Boys and by working closely with the local families of the Bedford Boys and the community to gather artifacts, memories, and personal accounts. Each exhibit at the center is crafted with care to ensure the narrative remains personal and respectful. Visitors often remark on the emotional power of the center’s displays, a testament to her thoughtful approach to storytelling.
Ms. Parker is also a published author and creative storyteller. Her children’s book series, “Austin and Charlie Adventures,” is inspired by two real dogs and offers engaging tales that blend fun with life lessons. She frequently visits schools to read her books aloud, delighting children while encouraging them to think imaginatively. In addition to writing, she produced a documentary project titled “We Have Casualties…”, which aims to preserve and share wartime stories in a compelling visual format. It tells of the Bedford Boys, their time growing up in a town of 3200 people, their Army training for D-Day, and how the families survived after losing their sons and husbands. This work furthers her mission to keep history at the forefront for new audiences. “We must keep the stories alive and never let them be forgotten,” says Ms. Parker.
Beyond her professional work, Ms. Parker is active in several civic organizations. She has served as a past Exalted Ruler of the Elks and is affiliated with Moose, the Lions, the Greater Federation of Women’s Club as well as the University Women Association at Smith Mountain Lake. These memberships reflect her enduring commitment to service, fellowship, and leadership among women. Her participation helps strengthen community ties and broaden support for educational and historical initiatives.
Originally from Pasadena, California, and Las Vegas, Nevada, Ms. Parker enjoys a well-rounded personal life filled with activities such as dancing and skiing. She values time with her husband, Ken Parker, their stepdaughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She cherishes the life they have built together. Looking ahead, Ms. Parker plans to continue expanding the impact of the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. With dedication, she remains focused on honoring the stories of sacrifice and courage that shaped our nation’s history.