Thomas Francis "Tom" Parks Jr.

Thomas Francis Parks Jr., 82, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in Dover. Born on February 14, 1944, in Brooklyn, NY to the late Thomas Francis Parks Sr. and Eileen Mooney Parks, Tom brought light, humor, and unmistakable presence into every room he entered.

In 1955, Tom moved with his family to Dover, the community that would become the heart of his life. From an early age, he was known for his magnetic personality - the kind of person people gravitated toward. Over the decades, he became a familiar and beloved figure throughout the Seacoast region, widely recognized not only for his leadership and generosity but for the easy way he connected with people from all walks of life.

At 17, Tom proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving as an Infantry Rifleman beginning in 1962. He completed sea duty aboard an aircraft carrier and later served with the 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune. During his four years of honorable service, he earned several commendations, including the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal, and completed his service as a Sergeant - a role that reflected his natural ability to lead with strength and integrity. Tom's son Thomas III would later follow in his father's footsteps to become a highly decorated career Marine.

In the early 1970s, Tom joined Tri-City Dodge under Rene Plante, eventually becoming a partner and General Manager. Over 34 years, he helped build the dealership into a trusted local institution. More importantly, he built friendships - countless ones - with customers, colleagues, and community members who came to know him as both a respected businessman and a genuinely good man.

Tom married the love of his life, Millie, in July 1972 at the Episcopal Church in Dover. Together they created a warm and joyful home on Tuttle Ln. Tom embraced his roles as husband, father, and grandfather with pride, humor, and deep affection.

After retiring in 2005, Tom enjoyed time at the home he built on the water in Dover and at his condo in Naples, Florida. An avid golfer, he was a longtime member of Portsmouth Country Club and Cochecho Country Club, where his quick wit and easy laugh made him a favorite, yet fiercely competitive, playing partner.

Tom's commitment to service extended far beyond his professional life. He served for many years on the board of Catholic Charities and as chairman of Dover Catholic School (now Saint Mary Academy) school board. He was also a member of the Dover Elks and the Royal Order of Moose, and in retirement, he continued giving back through his work on the New Hampshire Compensation Appeals Board.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Millie; his sons, Thomas, Blake, and John; and his cherished granddaughters, Tina, Suzy, and Addy. He is also survived by his siblings Janet, Jimmy, Kathy, Stephen, and Mary. He was predeceased by his sister Nancy (1946–2009).

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. John Hopkins and the staff of Bellamy Fields for five years of excellent, compassionate care.

A wake will be held at Tasker Funeral Home (621 Central Ave, Dover, NH 03820) on Thursday, March 5th, 2026 from 5-8p. Mass will take place 11a-12p on Friday, March 6th at St. Thomas More Catholic Church (6 Madbury Rd, Durham, NH 03824). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Tom's memory to the New Hampshire Food Bank (nhfoodbank.org, navigate to "Donate" and select "Tribute Donation").

Tom will be remembered as a loving husband and father, proud Marine, devoted Catholic, respected businessman, and generous community member - but also as the unforgettable presence whose warmth, humor, and charisma left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.