Obituary of James Parks

James V. “Jim” Parks, 96, passed away Thursday, June 20, 2019 at Winthrop, AR. He was born February 19, 1923 at Tom, OK, the son Oliver and Martha Ann Wicker Parks. He was a patriot and served in the United States Army during World War II. Jim married the love of his life, Evelyn Rice, on April 26, 1947 at Lake Village, AR, and together they raised a strong and vibrant family.

Jim loved his family and they always came first. He was the best Husband, Dad, and Grandpa anyone could ever want. He was a worker. Jim had a heart for service and would volunteer his time and talent to help others. Even in his retirement, he worked from sunup to sundown and was glad to do so. As a golfer, Jim was able to “knock it a mile” and never missed a chance to go golfing with Evelyn. Jim’s greatest hobby was deer hunting and he would often speak in a whisper during hunting season.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Martha Ann Wicker Parks; seven siblings, Chester, Jessie, Lola, Clifford, J.C., Annie, and Oliver Junior.

Jim is survived by his wife of 72 years, Evelyn, three sons, Larry Parks and wife Pam of Mabank, TX, Michael Parks and wife Sandra of Amity, AR, and Ronald Parks and wife Becky of Boles, AR; a daughter, Yvonne Steward and husband Don of Winthrop, AR; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and close friends. The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Sunday, June 23, 2019 at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be will be held at 1:30 pm on Monday, June 24, 2019 at the White Family Chapel. Interment will follow at Tom Cemetery in Tom, OK.