James S. Parks

James S. “Popeye” Parks, 87, of Shelbyville, passed away Wednesday, August 13, 2014 at Major Hospital. He was born April 4, 1927, in Crawford County, the son of Arley and Lillian (Sinclair) Parks. He married Thea Avonelle Harker, on July 31, 1952, and she preceded him in death on October 31, 2001. He is survived by his son, Dennis “Chipper” Parks and wife, Jacque of Shelby County; son-in-law, Rick Meyers of Shelbyville; grandchildren, Eric Meyers, Brandi Lynn Parks and significant other, Mason Tate, Nathaniel Feuerstine and wife, Susie, Jennifer Owens and husband, Maurice, Adrienne Mahanna and husband, Chris; great-grandchildren, Terrell, Jason, Kyle, Andrew, Gavin, Ethan, Isabella, Aiden, Julia, MaddieLynn, Vivienne, Adam and LillieAnne; and close friend, Betty McCain of Bengal. He was also preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Denise Meyers; brothers, Loral Lee Parks and J.B. Parks; and sister, Mildred E. Romine. James graduated from Franklin High School in 1945. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World War II in the Infantry as a Staff Sergeant. James attended Bengal Christian Church. He retired from General Motors Truck and Bus Plant with over 35 years of service. He was also a lifelong farmer. James was a long-time member of the Shelbyville Eagles Lodge. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, flying planes and spending time with family. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, August 17, 2014 at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, August 18, 2014 at the funeral home, with Rev. Bill Horner officiating. Military graveside services will be conducted by the local military committee. Interment will be at Lewis Creek Baptist Cemetery in Shelby County. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Association of Shelby County, P.O. Box 844, Shelbyville, Indiana 46176.