Harry Dwain Parks

Harry Dwain Parks passed away peacefully on November 11, 2026, at his home in Hickory, NC, with his daughters by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on November 24, 1948, in Elyria, Ohio, to Harry F. Parks and Frankie C. Parks (née Moore).

He is survived by two daughters, Christina K. Lababidi (Ali) and Jennifer A. Santos (Luis); grandchildren, Michael C. Parks, Deanna A. Lababidi, Adam A. Lababidi, Daniel E. Santos Miranda, and Anthony P. Santos Parks; great-grandchildren, Ryder A. Parks and Rylie M. Parks; a sister, Devona R. Fountain; and a niece, Alexia R. Ciontea (Jeff).

Harry graduated from Black River High School and received his Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Akron. Throughout his life, he held several positions, including teaching special education at Murray Ridge and Black River Schools, landscaping and maintenance at the University of Akron, and even volunteering on the Sullivan Fire Department. He truly made his career as an over-the-road truck driver, from which he retired after more than 30 years. He was proud of and honored by his accomplishment of surpassing three million miles accident-free.

Farming was another great love in Harry’s life. Anyone who knew him knew he was a John Deere man. Working the ground and spending time on the family farm in Sullivan, Ohio, was one of his favorite life’s passions. Dogs and dairy cows also had a special place in his heart.

Harry was a mentor and friend, positively impacting many lives. He was easy to talk to and known for striking up a conversation with anyone who crossed his path. He attended the Salvation Army Church in Ohio and was a member of the Icard Church of God in North Carolina.

In honoring Harry’s memory, the family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Flynn Home in Morganton, North Carolina, a community he was passionate about supporting.
https://burkerecovery.com/flynn-recovery-house/

A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026 at Jenkins Funeral Home in 4081 Startown Road, Newton, North Carolina, at 5:00 PM, with visitation from 4:00–5:00 PM. A graveside service will be held at Parks Family Farm, 569 County Rd 40, Sullivan, Ohio 44880, on Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 1:00 PM.

Harry “Dwain” Parks loved his family and was proud of them. He will be deeply missed, but memories of him will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.