Ronald A. Parks

1944 - 2025

Ronald A. Parks

West Winfield, NY

Ronald A. Parks of West Winfield NY, passed away Friday, November 21, 2025, peacefully with his family by his side leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication to family, community, and a remarkable career in banking and agricultural consulting.

Born on May 16, 1944, in Watertown, NY, the son of the late Allan and Beatrice Parks. He graduated from Canton High School before attending the University of Delhi Tech School in Delhi, New York, where he earned his associate's degree. Determined to advance his education further, he went on to complete his bachelor's degree at the University of Georgia, graduating in 1966. This achievement marked the beginning of a long, respected, and impactful career in the banking industry. In 1982, he graduated with his MBA from Stonier Graduate School of Banking Rutgers University.

Ronald entered into holy matrimony with the love of his life, Marietha Scruggs in Sauquoit, NY on November 27th, 1970.

He began his professional journey at Oneida National Bank. Throughout the years, the bank transitioned through several identities-becoming Norstar Bank and later Fleet Bank. Through hard work, steady leadership, and deep expertise, he rose to the role of Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending. His thoughtful guidance, strong relationships, and commitment to excellence made him a trusted figure within the banking community.

Even after his retirement from Fleet Bank, his knowledge and experience remained in high demand. He soon joined Central National Bank, which was later acquired by NBT Bank. There he continued contributing to the field he loved, working until his second retirement.

Following his banking career, he embraced a new chapter by serving as a consultant with Cornell University's FarmNet Program. In this role, he provided invaluable support to New York's farm families-offering guidance, compassion, and insight during critical moments of transition and challenge. His work with FarmNet left a lasting impact on countless agricultural businesses across the region.

Community involvement was a cornerstone of his life. He was a 32nd-degree Mason and a Shriner, proudly belonging to the Ziyara Shriners Hospital of Utica. His commitment to service extended through membership in the Kiwanis Club of Mohawk, New York, as well as leadership and participation in multiple community boards, including Mohawk Valley Edge, the West Winfield Village Board, and the Winfield Medical Board. His dedication to improving the community was unwavering and deeply felt.

He was a man with many passions. An avid golfer, he enjoyed years of membership at Cedar Lake Golf Club. He loved playing Sunday Night Ice Hockey and cherished time spent with family at racetracks throughout the Northeast. As dedicated race fan, he followed the dirt-track series faithfully and valued the friendships formed at every track. He very rarely missed a race, and you would often hear him say "I Just happen to have a change of clothes with me." When not traveling for races, he found joy in spending time with his grandchildren, building memories that would last through generations. He also took pride in overseeing operations at Parks Companies and enjoyed winters in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, with his wife.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Marietha, and their children: Taunya Parks-Jones, (Nicholas) Tadd Parks (Holly), and Timothy Parks. His legacy continues through his grandchildren-Greggory, Hayleigh, Karmena, and Layne-and great-grandchildren Delaney and Arivanna. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Parks (Louise) of Florida and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

Above all, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His warmth, integrity, dedication, and love continue to live on in all who knew him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 3022 Oneida Street, Sauquoit, NY 13456. Calling hours will be Saturday, November 29, 2025 from 12pm-2pm with a short service following. All friends and family are welcome to join us following calling hours at Parks Companies, 183 Rasbach Rd, Clayville, NY 13322 to celebrate the life of Ron.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the nurses, doctors, and clinical staff of the ICU at Wynn Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion throughout his stay there. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.