Clyde Parks Thomas

Clyde "Parks" Thomas was born February 10, 1944, at Young Hospital in Roscoe, Texas, to parents Oma and Jackie Thomas. During the building of their ranch home, he was lovingly welcomed into the lives of his siblings-George Allen, Ellen Rae, and Jackie Irene. His childhood was shaped by life on the land his mother inherited from her father, George Parks Jones, and he quickly fell in love with the ranching life. Parks spent countless days watching cowboys round up cattle and work sheep, dreaming of one day marrying, settling south of the original ranch house, and driving a cattle truck-though he was always grateful the truck-driving part never came to pass.
On December 25, 1962, Parks married Oma Rue "Rudy" Lanier in the Blackwell Methodist Church, where she attended. Parks became a member of the Church of Christ as a young man, and after their marriage Rudy joined as well. Parks served faithfully as church treasurer for over fifty years and was devoted to helping in any way he could within the church and community. He was a lifelong member of the church of Christ there in Maryneal. They welcomed their daughter, Susan Stephanie, and later their son, Todd Parks. In those early years of raising a family, Parks and Rudy also chose to foster children through Abilene Christian Homes.
Although Parks nearly quit school in the first grade, famously known for his dislike of classrooms-he persevered and graduated from Highland High School in 1962. His father proudly handed him his diploma, and in later years, Parks was able to hand diplomas to both of his children as well. In a beautiful turn of life, Parks later served on the Highland school board for twelve years, including during the school's 1980 renovation. He cared deeply for the students & teachers and worked to support what was best for the district. He worked on the family ranch from the day he graduated until his final day. Over the years, he also held a few additional jobs, including working on a pig farm in Roscoe, serving as a feed salesman for Triple F Feeds, and pumping oil wells in southern Nolan County.
Parks' dedication to service extended far beyond the school. He served as president of the Maryneal Community Center for many years, where neighbors could always count on him to check propane, do repairs, and prepare for winter weather. He helped with the upkeep of Decker Cemetery and served over twelve years as election chairman for Precinct 3 in Nolan County. One of his greatest joys-besides his grandchildren-was serving on the Taylor Electric Board, where he and his father were honored with a substation named after them in Maryneal. Through the electric board, he and Rudy enjoyed many trips together.
Parks was a humble Christian man who never sought recognition. He had a heart for the underdog and quietly dedicated time to helping those less fortunate. It wasn't unusual to find him walking the county roads, picking up trash and cans, simply doing good where he saw the opportunity. He received several awards in life-including the Conservation Rancher Award and being named Highland's first Coming Home King. He spent his life striving for the eternal reward: a home in Heaven. We can rest assured that Papa was joyfully welcomed there.
Parks is survived by his wife, Rudy; daughter, Susan; and son, Todd.
He leaves behind grandchildren Ariel (Edgar), Branson Thomas, Clyde (and wife Shelbi) Dent, and Cutter Dent, great-grandchildren Oliver Dent, Indie Dent, and Ellie Gallegos.
Parks lived a life of service, humility, and steadfast faith. His legacy is reflected in the countless lives he touched, the community he loved, and the family who will forever treasure his example.
Services will be Sunday, November 16th, 2025 at the McCoy Chapel of Memories in Sweetwater with burial to follow at Decker Cemetery.