Max J. Parks
(June 28, 1929 - February 6, 2021)

Max Jermiah Parks, 91, of Huntington, passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2021.  He was a beloved husband, loving father, caring grandpa and loyal friend.  He was born June 28, 1929 in Lumberport, W.Va., the son of the late Benjamin Franklin and Grace A. Parks.  He is also preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Norma Elaine Parks; grandson, Spencer Michael Downey; and his sister, Pauline Parks Rice.  Max is survived by his daughters, Cynthia Carol Parks Mahaffey (Ken) of Lawrenceville, Georgia, and Sheree Lee Parks Downey (Steve) of Charleston, W.Va.; his two grandchildren, Matthew Aaron Mahaffey of Sandy Springs, Georgia, and Sydney Elaine Downey of Charleston, W.Va.  Max attended Victory High School and graduated in the Class of 1948 and also, attended Marshall University.  Max continued to be a life-long fan of the Thundering Herd and could always be seen wearing his “Green and White”.  He served in the United States Air Force from January 1951 to January 1955 starting as an Airman Third Class and completing his tour of duty as an Airman First Class.  During the Korean War, he was stationed in the Philippines.  Max was hired in 1959 as a member of the sales force for the Strietmann Biscuit Company, later known as the Keebler Company.  He worked for over 30 years serving the local grocery stores in the Tri-State area.  Max was active at Vinson High School, where his daughters attended, by serving as the 1978 – 1979 Band Booster President and being recognized for his many years of service to the spirit and traditions of the high school’s athletics.  Max loved the game of golf and volunteered for The Greenbrier Classic from its inception in 2010 until its final tournament in 2019.  He was an avid fisherman and hunter who saw the wondrous beauty in the mountains and streams of West Virginia and had the utmost respect for God’s creation.  Max was a dedicated and active member of the Westmoreland United Methodist Church for over 50 years where he served in many capacities.  It brought joy to his heart for the children of Brandon Road to sit on his front porch enjoying popsicles and having fun.  He so loved his neighbors.  As Max would say. . . .“Stop and Smell the Roses.”  The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to be made to Westmoreland United Methodist Church, 3602 Auburn Road, Huntington, WV 25704.  All arrangements are under the direction of Reger Funeral Home.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Max’s family has decided to have a drive thru visitation on Wednesday, February 10th at Spring Hill Cemetery, Huntington, starting at 12:30pm and ending at 2:00pm.  A graveside service will follow at 2:00pm with military honors.  Pastor Kara Phillippi will be conducting the service.  Anyone wishing to stay for the funeral service may do so, while following the CDC protocols.  Reger Funeral Home of Huntington is assisting the family with arrangements.