Obituary of William T. Parks

William Thomas Parks, 72 years old (September 21, 1951), died on February 5, 2024 after a five year battle with prostate cancer. He spent these years as a resident at Pine Acres Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Madison, NJ.

As the first son of William and Dorothy Parks (both deceased), William was born in Fitzgerald, Georgia. He grew up in Newark, NJ. His family attended Phillips Metropolitan CME Church for many years. He received his education in local schools. While attending Arts High School, he played trumpet in the marching band and received letters for his years of participation. He loved basketball and played whenever he could. After graduation (1968), he attended college, but ultimately decided to earn a living as a customer service representative for pharmaceutical companies. His health decline caused him to leave employment so that he could focus on his health while he could still make decisions for himself.

William is survived by three sisters and three brothers. Also, he leaves nephews, great nieces, great nephews, a great great niece and great great nephews. His wit and linguistic skills made him a popular member of both his family and his community.

Married (and divorced) once, William had no children. Because of his wit, his sense of humor, and his wide-ranging knowledge due to his love of reading, jazz, and Svengoolie, William was loved and respected by those who knew him.

As he wished, no services will be held. Cremation was his choice. He wanted to be remembered as he lived, NOT as he died. Our family misses him, but we have our memories. We know he is at peace and in the presence of God and family members who are with him in his heavenly home.

Before he passed, he was adamant that he preferred getting phone calls rather than visits. He loved a good conversation (or argument). He didn't want his family to see his decline. Because of his love for his family, his wishes were fulfilled right to the end. We know that love never dies. So, we can say, with love, “Rest in Peace, William!”

Although there will be no services, there is a way to remember William that would make him really happy. Make a donation to your local library as a way to honor him! He truly believed that reading opened the world to him. He never physically got to travel the world, but reading was a gift to his mind and imagination. By making a donation, maybe someone else will travel the world (mentally), just as William did. He always said “Reading is fundamental!” He knew it! He believed it! He READ!