Percival David Park, affectionately known as Percy, passed away December 2, 2023, in Charlottesville, Virginia, following an unforeseen illness. He was 79.
Percy was born March 25, 1944, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, to Mary Dorothy (Ewing) Park and Percival Newton Park. A lifelong scholar, he earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Allegheny College and a juris doctor from Harvard Law School. His intellectual curiosity led him to pursue two additional bachelor's degrees from the University of Maryland and Boston College, as well as a master of laws from the University of Virginia.
Percy proudly served his country, commissioning as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army and completing two tours in Vietnam. As a JAG officer, he rose through the ranks to lieutenant colonel before retiring in 1992. His commitment to service continued as he worked as a civil servant for the Army until 2010.
For over four decades, Percy was a devoted member of St. Paul's Memorial Church in Charlottesville, where he also made his home. He had a deep appreciation for classical music, literature, poetry, art and cinema, and devoted countless hours to genealogical research, serving as a volunteer editor for various genealogical societies throughout his life. He was also a passionate advocate for animal rights and contributed his expertise to local community advisory boards.
An intrepid traveler, Percy explored the world with boundless curiosity and an open heart. From Barcelona to Peru, Egypt to India, he embraced diverse cultures and forged connections across five continents, inspiring others with his tales of adventure and his genuine appreciation for humanity in all its forms.
Percy was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife of three decades, Nora Lee (Lilly) Park. He is survived by his daughter, Tiffany Park of Charlottesville; his sister-in-law, Gale Gentry and her husband, David, of Troy, Virginia; his brother-in-law, Edward Kermit Lilly of Scottsville, Virginia; four nieces; two nephews; and their families, all of whom will cherish his memory and carry forward his legacy of curiosity, kindness and dedication.
To order
memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Percival David Park, please visit our
flower store.