Richard Kelley Parkes

Richard Kelley Parkes, age 78, of Williamsburg, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. A native of Gloucester County, he was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Bertrand Henry Parkes, Sr. of Tidemill. Richard served 26 years with St. Laurent Paper Products in West Point and later retired from Colonial Williamsburg after 13 years. A U.S. Navy veteran, he traveled to 18 countries, served aboard the USS Annapolis during the Vietnam War. He was an ordained deacon at First Baptist Church in West Point and later rejoined Bethany United Methodist Church. He loved gardening, canning, cooking, and visiting estate sales. He will be remembered for his generous heart and unwavering kindness. Richard graduated from Gloucester High School and later earned an associate degree in Pulp and Paper Science from Rappahannock Community College. He is survived by his son R. Kelley Parkes II (Jennifer); twin brother Ralph (Edith Ann); brother Albert George; grandchildren Kyle and Kaitlyn; and great-grandson Jayden. The family will receive friends at Bethany United Methodist Church on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 3:00 – 3:45 pm, followed by the memorial service, officiated by Pastor John Choi and Pastor Ray Goude, to follow at 4:00 pm. The inurnment will be private. In memory of Richard, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choosing. Services under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home & Crematory.