Charles William

Parks

Charles W. Parks April 16,1934-September 10, 2026

Charles William Parks (Bill), 92, went to his eternal home September 10, 2026. Born April 16,1934 in Memphis TN he was the son of the late Paul Russell and Cora Elizabeth Parks. Bill, as he was better known, was the eldest of the 5 Parks children.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years Mable Parks. He is survived by three daughters Ann Brown (Reid), Susan Parks, Stacy Poole (Lance) and one son Billy Parks (Teresa). Bill was the loving Papaw to 6 grandchildren Chris Brown (Brenna), Megan Hubbard (Kirby), Krista Parks, Brett Parks (Rachel), Laura Poole and Graham Poole. He was also Papaw to his precious 8 great grandchildren Kaelyn, Owen, Dean and Mable Jeane Brown, Brooks, Harrison, Everett Hubbard and Harper Mable Parks.

Bill was a lifelong member and Elder at Decatur Trinity Christian Church where he worshipped regularly and led many classes through the years. Bill most recently worshipped at Prestonwood Baptist in Prosper Texas where he attended the Amazing Grace Bible fellowship class and was an active member. He attended lunch almost every Tuesday with his “buddies” as he lovingly referred to them. Bill was a beloved “Sunday school” teacher for many years and for various age groups in his early years. He enjoyed sharing his love for Jesus with everyone and continued living his faith out in his later years in Texas.

Bill was a veteran serving as a Marine in the Korean War. Bill retired from the Memphis Fire department after 40 years of service. He was a dedicated firefighter and Chief. His dedication was seen in the fact that he never missed a day in those 40 years! He was a true example to his family so much so that he influenced many of the men in his family to pursue firefighting as well, including his only son “Little Billy”. He was so proud to share the firefighting family with his son, grandson and nephews! He was also a dedicated salesmen for State Beauty Supply where he worked with his family (pretty much the whole family) and he loved his customers who became more like family!

Bill shared with his wife Mable the love of sports. Mainly sports that involved their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. When his children were young you could find him helping coach on the sidelines or in the stands keeping Mable calm, which many know he often found to be quite the challenge! Bill’s influence through sports touched so many lives on the field and off the field. He was well known to many in TN and TX for being the number one fan. His children and grandchildren were truly blessed having him cheer them on in sports and life.

Bill was a true example of sacrificial love and a servant heart. He lived a life full of love and all who knew him felt his love and kindness. He loved the Lord most of all and this flowed into all areas of his living. He was a picture of the contentment that comes with loving the Lord above all else. This love was seen in his marriage to Mable who he met through his sister Peggy and Mable’s brother Doug. He loved unconditionally by opening his home, giving generously and sharing his faith with so many through the years.

He lived a FULL 92 years and never slowed down. He was content and joyful. He was humble and wise. He was sacrificial and generous. Bill’s love was seen in his big smile and felt in his warm hugs. He will be missed by many but his legacy will live on through all who knew and loved him. He fulfilled his mission here on Earth and we are comforted knowing he has heard the words “ Well done, my good and faithful servant!” Matthew 25:23.