PARKE SMITH

I recently read his life story and have it in my library, what a guy, so down to earth and so descriptive in his exploits in dark times.

parke smith , there was just one like him

I was very sorry to hear this sad news, and I am joined by all my family in our deepest condolences for all your family. I always heard good things and not only enjoyed, but was very grateful for his recollections of the war. He flew in the same squadron as my late grandfather (Ian Grahame Stewart) and it was through this connection that he and my mother became good friends. A letter will no doubt follow. My sincerest sympathies to you all, Mark Meredith

He was a warm man indeed.Been years since I have seen Parke or his family, but my late Mother ( Dot Alsop Farmer) thought the world of him.
I still have a copy of his book about flying in WW II.
James Alsop Farmer
Charlottesville

What a great,fun, gentle man. Over the years my youth was spent largely sailing on the bay, saying in Colorodo, summering at Fishers, and occasional rides in a bi-plane. What an amazing gift from such a great person. I imagine he is doing all those things he loved so much right now. Thanks to him,Alice, Parke, Jim and Preston for always being so welcoming. Bless you all in this difficult time

A true gentleman, consummate pilot and a kind and thoughtful man. Not only did Parker share his skills and knowledge he did not hesitate to place his trust in the fledglings at Barnstormer's Airshows. Several of us succeeded in making aviation our careers and we owe much to Parke Smith for making this possible. God speed Mr. Smith.

PARKE, I HOPE YOU REALIZED THROUGHOUT THE YEARS I TRULY FELT THAT YOU WERE ONE OF THE FINEST PEOPLE I HAVE EVER MET

PARKE, I HOPE YOU KNEW THROUGHOUT THE YEARS HOW MUCH YOU IMPRESSED ME AS ONE OF THE GRANDEST PERSONS I HAVE EVER MET.

As a renter in the pool cottage, I received the priviledge of meeting and gettng to know Parke and Alice for the last year. What a delightful, happy man and yes, that grin of his was contagious! My deepest sympathy for your loss but I know that you have so many wonderful memories that will keep him close to your hearts! Trish Mosby

I so fondly remember the first time I met Parke and Alice with Tad! We had been dating, and went down to sail for the day on Southern Star---it's initial sail with Jim Mullen. Tad could not stop talking about Parke and all that he had done. He has been a shining star in the great constellation of pilots. We will miss him.

What a great Pilot, Gentleman and Friend! Mr. Smith was always able to resolve any difficult situation or task with his ever ready grin and light laughter. He was the professional pilot who quickly mastered any aircraft he flew; easily and safely performing all aerobatic manoeuvres with exquisite perfection, confidence and smoothness. He quickly gained the respect and admiration of us all. Mr. Smith set the standard for us all at Barnstormers Airshows. Along with Mr. Smith, we were most pleased to have Preston (as Crew Chief), Jimmy and Parke(“Jr”), in our airshow operations. The charming “Miss Alice” was very tolerant and supportive of “her men”, and their participation. Many, many thanks, Mr. Smith. You have now “flown West”, and you will be greatly missed by us all. “May your Soul be wrapped in the Wings of the Almighty”.
Steve Hoffmann

Christie,Jimmy,Preston&Parke,
So sorry to her about your dad's death. I will always remember his big smile like in the picture. He and I had lots of fun times together flying model airplanes and rockets he built in the U of R fields before you guys got old enough to come into play.

He was such a great guy and as a kid I always wanted to be like him - flying planes, etc. I know he will be missed by all of us. Blessings to Alice and all of you.

I have great memories of my days at Episcopal High School and Parke and Alice would invite us down for weekends. He was always very gracious and took us flying and made us feel at home.
They would also fly down to Charleston for the occasional visits.
He will be sorely missed and the family is in our prayers.
God Bless,
Peach (Park Jr.)

I have many fond memories of visiting with Parke and Alice and talking with Parke about his acrobatic flying, etc. He was a tremendously interesting individual that will be sorely missed. I know that his 4 children will miss his support and enthusiasm. We share 2 grandchildren (Parke and Jaclyn) who will miss their grandfather very much. Love to the whole family. Jack and Sally Ullom.