Memorial Tribute to Roy and Rosie Parks

Roy Everett Parks, age 82, passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2026, at East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro, Georgia. Rosie Lee Parks, age 87, passed away on Friday, October 2, 2020.

Roy was born on April 20, 1944, in Doniphan and lived in Missouri and later Arkansas before moving to Metter, Georgia, less than a year ago. He was the son of George Monroe Parks and Maude Bowman Parks. A veteran of the Vietnam War, Roy proudly served in the United States Navy. He was a retired crane operator, having worked in construction with Asarco. Roy was a deeply spiritual man, known for his storytelling, friendliness, and love of social gatherings. In his leisure time, he enjoyed playing pool and fishing.

Rosie was born on December 12, 1932, in Coffman, Missouri, to the late Henry “Beecher” Bowling and Alma Smith Bowling. She learned to sew from her mother and carried that skill throughout her life, often making or altering her own clothing. She also learned to hunt and trap with her father, a passion she later shared with Roy. Together, they enjoyed hunting, fishing, and long drives along gravel roads, simply enjoying the journey. Rosie was known for her green thumb, excellent cooking, and loving care for her family.

Roy and Rosie shared many years of marriage filled with faith, family, and simple joys. They are now reunited.

They are survived by their children, Kenny “Ken” Nations (Jessica) and Alan Nations (Jeffrey Jenkins); their grandchildren, Christopher Nations (Katie), Brittany Tillman (Christian), Dalton Nations, and Emily Nations; their great-grandchildren, Silas Tillman and Adeline Rose Tillman; Roy’s sisters, Rogenia Thurman (Larry) and Alma Stone (David); and several nieces and nephews.

Rosie was preceded in death by her parents, Henry “Beecher” Bowling and Alma Smith Bowling; her sister, Patsy Sales; and her sister, Edith Miller, who passed away after Rosie’s death. Roy was preceded in death by his parents, George Monroe Parks and Maude Bowman Parks; his brothers, Joe Parks and Jim Parks; and his sisters, Ethel Bell and Mary Parks.

A joint graveside service will be held at Parkview Cemetery on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Tim Morgan officiating. Full military honors will be rendered for Roy. Roy and Rosie will be laid to rest together.