Obituaries

Billy Wayne Parks

Photo of Billy Wayne Parks
Billy "Wayne" Parks, 83, passed away January 26, 2014 after a time of compassionate care at Innisfree Nursing Home in Rogers. He was born on July 20, 1930, in Havana, Arkansas to the late Julian "Bill" and Mildred (Freeman) Parks. Wayne graduated from Fort Smith Senior High (or Northside) in 1948 and upon graduation joined the U.S. Marine Corps. He served in the 1st Marine Division in Korea until 1952. After his return, Wayne moved to Northwest Arkansas where he met and married Marcia Backhaus that same year. Wayne received his BSBA from the University of Arkansas in 1962. For several years he was employed with Phillips Petroleum in Denver Colorado, returning to NWA to work in transportation and sales for multiple firms, including, J.B. Hunt Transport and The Moser Company. Wayne spent a major portion of his life caring for people through his work in Alcoholics Anonymous. He was a friend of Bill W. and had celebrated 44 years of sobriety. Wayne served as general manager of AA World Services in New York City from 1988-1991. Wayne and Marcia were always willing to share a cup of coffee and listen. He was a positive healing force in many lives. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife Marcia in 2009. He is survived by his daughter, Karen Sage and husband, Michel of Rogers; an aunt, Gladeen Ellington (and Al) of Dallas; step-grandson, Justin Sage of Bella Vista; and a great-grandson, Leland. His visitation will be Friday, January, 31, 2014 from 9:30 to 11 a.m., with services to follow at 11 a.m., in Rollins Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be at Benton County Memorial Park. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.rollinsfuneral.com.

Published January 29, 2014

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