Jess Parks, age 90 years 11 months passed peacefully into his heavenly rest on July 25, 2026, at the Marion VA Hospital. Jess was born in Thompsonville, IL on August 5, 1935, to Marion and Gladys (Doering) Parks. He married Goldie Green on December 26, 1961, and she survives.
Jess is survived by his wife Goldie; one brother, Bill (Phylis) Parks of Thompsonville; sisters-in-law, Alice Dunn, Vivian Lee, Mary Baker, and LaDonna Powell; brother-in-law, Sonny Green, Mike (Becky) Green, and Kenny Green; many nephews and nieces also survive.
Jess was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Dora McCormick, Francis Pearce, Doris Ellis, and Sheila Wece, and brother Robert (Bob) Parks.
Jess was raised and went to school in Thompsonville, IL. After graduation he joined the Air Force serving from 1955 to 1961 serving as an engine mechanic on the flight line where he was injured in the line of duty.
Jess returned and worked at Brownies Garage in Benton. Jess and Goldie moved to Fairfield in 1970 where he began a 40-year career as Produce Manager for Kroger, Food Park, and Buy-Low. Next, he chose to go to work for the City of Fairfield and retired from there.
Jess was an avid St Louis Cardinal fan, fisherman, and hunter. He was a faithful member of the Fairfield Church of Christ.
Funeral services will be held at 1PM on Friday July 31, 2026, at Johnson & Vaughn Funeral Home with burial in Shrewsbury Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Fairfield Church of Christ and will be accepted at the Johnson & Vaughn Funeral Home which is in charge of all the arrangements.
