Robert David Parks

Funeral services for Robert David Parks will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Westside Holiness Church in Claremore, OK. Visitation will take place on Monday, September 30, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Bethel Holiness Church in Chelsea, OK. Robert went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, September 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born in Chelsea to Raleigh and Jenetta (Goates) Parks on December 31, 1935. He grew up in Chelsea and attended Bushyhead Schools until the 8th grade, later graduating from Chelsea High School with the class of 1953. After high school, Robert began working and, in February of 1955, met Maudie Roberts at a church event. After a short courtship, they married on June 25, 1955, at her parents' home in Tulsa.

After marrying, Robert and Maudie lived in Jenks, where he began working at Bethlehem Steel. He later transitioned to working for Monty Millikin as a carpet installer. In 1965, Robert began designing their home in Chelsea, which he built. Over the years, Robert helped build many homes and helped his brothers design and construct theirs. He also helped his church family in building and designing Bethel Holiness Church.

Robert's life revolved around his church and his devotion to the Lord. He served as a deacon at Bethel Holiness Church for several decades and was the song leader for a number of years. He enjoyed playing his 1935 Martin guitar, in church, which he had purchased as a boy from a pawn shop.

Family was everything to Robert. He took his wife and children on vacations every year, and they would always bring back a souvenir rock from each location they visited. In later years, Robert and Maudie discovered a love for canoeing the Illinois River, which became a favorite pastime in the hot summer months. 

Above all, Robert was known as a great Christian man who loved the Lord with all of his heart. He had a servant’s heart, helping countless people throughout his life without seeking recognition. Robert was a man of few hobbies, because he spent his time looking for someone to help. Robert and Maudie's home was always open to anyone and everyone and was a refuge to those who needed it. He was always there when someone needed him, no matter the task, and was loved by all who knew him. He was affectionately called "Papa" by many, even those who were not his grandchildren.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Maudie; son-in-law, Chris Wright; granddaughter, Jeanetta Parks; grandsons, Rodger Dale Parks II and Tyler Wright; brothers, Raleigh Parks and Ronnie Parks and one infant sister.

He is survived by his children, Rodger Parks and wife Loretta, Debra Wright, and Onis Parks and wife Vickie; grandchildren, Robert Calhoun, Michael, Polly, Tamara, Megan, Christina, Melissa, Brianna, Jill, Quinton, LaRinda, and Katrina; 21 great-grandchildren; brothers, Eugene Parks, Floyd Parks, John Parks, Leon Parks, and Dan Parks; sister, Mary Littleton along with many nieces, nephews, and other family members.