James Willie Parks was born in Iredell County, N.C., on November 17, 1932, to Laura Parks. He was self-employed as a logger. James enjoyed singing, gardening, telling jokes, talking, and he loved going to K & W Cafeteria, eating Bojangles wings, and playing with his grandchildren. James was a co-founder of Faith Towers, where he served as a Deacon. He truly loved the Lord. James was a well known dresser. He will truly be missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Pastor Ella Parks; a daughter, Shelia Keaton; grandchildren, Michael, Timothy, and Anthony; a sister, Roberta Smyre; a brother, Alferd Parks; a nephew, George Smyre; and a great niece, Diamond Connor; a host of nieces , nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

A celebration of Life service will be conducted on Sunday, November 22, 2020, at 1 p.m. at Miracle Faith Towers, Statesville, with burial at Iredell Memorial Park, Statesville.

Rutledge and Bigham Funeral Home is serving the Parks family.