Samuel Lee Parks

Samuel Lee Parks passed away peacefully in his sleep, at the age of 90, on February 25, 2023. He attended McKinley High School where he was an outstanding football player, and set the record for most rushing yards.
He also played basketball, baseball, and ran track. He was even a swimmer, where he earned the nickname, "gator". After graduating high school, he went on to play football for Tennessee State, as well as South Carolina State on a scholarship. Samuel later enlisted in the Army as part of the Airborne infantry 101st Airborne Division, where he was honorably discharged. And while stationed in Japan, he played football where he won the award for most outstanding player.
Samuel Lee parks was born May 20, 1932 to Earnest and Loris Parks of Canton, OH. He was preceded in death by both parents; wife Doris Parks; brothers, Earnest (Irene) Parks, Robert (Bob) Parks, and sister, Lila (Mose) Bolden. He is survived by his daughters, Rosalyn (JB) Ellis, Travenna Parks; sons, Victor (Yvonne) Parks - all of Canton and Vance (Lynn) Parks of West Virginia. He has 12 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
Samuel retired from the Ford Motor Company, as a press operator, after 24 years. He was a life-long member of the Canton Negro Oldtimers where he served as treasurer for 30 years. He was an avid sports enthusiast. Affectionately known as "Poppy," he enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, as well as other family members. He especially enjoyed playing cards and other games with his grandchildren, who often accused him of cheating them out of their candy. He enjoyed life to the fullest, and we enjoyed him.
The Man. The Myth. The Legend
Thank you god for blessing us.
Samuel Lee Parks was a great husband, father, uncle and grandfather.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 11AM to 12PM at the Southeast Church of Christ, 1424 Allen Ave SE, Canton, OH 44707. Service will follow at 12PM.