Jim Parks

(From Clark Funeral Home)

James A. ‘Jim’ Parks, 78, Neosho, died Nov. 12, 2016 at Medicalodge in Neosho, following a lengthy illness.

 Jim was born April 24, 1938 in Joplin, the son of James A. and Leo Vicy ‘Bobbie’(Smith) Parks. He graduated from Joplin Catholic High School and lived most of his life in the Neosho area. Jim lived in Wichita for a short time and returned to Neosho in 1966. He owned and operated Lone Star Finance, Parks Insurance Agency, Starcraft Trailer Sales and owned and operated an antique store. He retired from Parks Insurance Company in 2011. Jim was an avid gun collector, enjoyed going to flea markets, he had coached little league baseball, was involved in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts; a former Kiwanis Club member and a member of the Joplin Garden Club. He was a member of the Neosho United Methodist Church and a former Sunday School teacher. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren. 

 Jim and Peggy Randolph were married on Dec. 6, 1958 and she preceded him in death on June 7, 2016. He is survived by two children, Chris Parks and wife, Lisa of Neosho; Penny Messenger and husband, Gary of Peoria, Illinois and grandchildren, Samuel Parks, Jackson Parks, Kyle Messenger, Evan Messenger and Olivia Messenger. 

 Memorial services will be held on Friday, Nov. 18, 2016 at 1 pm at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, Dr. Jerry Seigel and Pastor Mitch Jarvis will officiate. Following the service the family will receive friends until 3 pm. Contributions in memory of Jim may be made to Neosho United Methodist Church or Faithful Friends Animal Advocates, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66, Neosho, MO 64850.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.