James W. Parks, Jr.

James (Jim) William Parks, Jr. blessed us with his presence for 90 years with a beautiful and fulfilling life before he went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on April 17, 2025 at 8:52pm. The world was forever changed when he was born on April 13,1935 to James William Parks, Sr and Bertha Stewart Parks. Jim was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and cherished friend, who always brought a smile to anyone in his presence. He was known for his loving nature, positivity and his cheerful whistle. Jim lived a life steadfast for the Lord, his family, and his community. His heart overflowed with compassion, care, and a servant's spirit. He truly loved worshiping the Lord and was a member of Greenwell Springs Baptist Church. Jim served as a member of the United States Army Reserve where he earned a Medal of Good Conduct while, stationed in Rhode Island. He was a proud graduate of Istrouma High School, where he played football. Jim was also a 1961 graduate of LSU, earning a degree in Industrial Arts. While in college, Jim participated on the track and field team, excelling in the Javelin. Following graduation, he taught shop and woodworking at Westdale for 3 years. After teaching, Jim became a purchasing agent and remained in that profession for the remainder of his career, working at Celanese in Kingsville, Texas, Ethel Corporation and Jacobs Engineering in Baton Rouge. Working with his hands, especially wood working and carving was his passion in life, graciously giving away hand crafted items he’d spent hours on perfecting.

Jim was blessed to have found true love 2 times in his life, with his first wife of 31 years, Peggy Turner Parks, who preceded him in death and his current wife of 30 years, Patricia Boudreaux Parks.

Those left to cherish her memories are his wife, Patricia; children: Cindy Bennett (Kelly), Susan Purvis (Ivan), James M. Parks (Shari Medley), Steven Parks (Rebecca) and Adam Scarbrough (Leslie); 18 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Virginia Kleinpeter, Marie Dabadie, Edith Shirah and Dorothy Dozier, along with his brother, Arthur Gaines and his first wife, Peggy.

Jim’s Celebration of Life will be held at Greenwell Springs Baptist Church on Friday, May 2, 2025, with visitation beginning at 10:00am, service at 11:00, followed by burial at Louisiana National Cemetery, located at 303 Mt Pleasant Zachary Rd., Zachary, LA at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area, 3772 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 225-334-7494,www.alzbr.org or to a charity of your choice.