L. Parker Harrell Jr. ’60

Parker grew up in Washington, D.C., and attended St. Albans School, where he stood out in sports. With us he played four years of baseball, studied at the Woodrow Wilson School, and dined at Ivy. On graduation he joined the Army Reserve, rose to second lieutenant, and attended the London School of Economics in 1960 and 1961.

Parker began his career in banking with Wachovia Bank and Trust in Charlotte, N.C. He moved to American Security and Trust Co. in Washington, D.C., then entered executive search, first at Paul Stafford Associates and ultimately with Korn/Ferry International in 1984. There he developed K/F’s European business through 2005, rising to director of financial services and CEO of Korn/Ferry Europe. He was also active in alumni affairs and was proudest of serving as class president from 1985 to 1990.

In 2005, Parker retired due to a serious stroke. Determined rehabilitation enabled him to serve on the board of the Atlanta Federal Home Loan Bank and continue to serve with a succession of school boards. He resumed playing some golf and enjoyed his home and farm in the foothills of the Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains.

Parker died April 21, 2025. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Adele; daughters Glenn ’87 and Logan; and eight grandchildren, to all of whom we send our condolences.