Celebrating the life of
John Bramer Parks
March 08, 1925 - May 15, 2010
John B. Parks, 85, passed away at his residence on May 15, 2010 surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Haddonfield, N.J., the son of the late Frank Bramer Parks and Anna Mae Gregson Parks. He was preceded in death by his brother Frank B. Parks III.
A United States Marine veteran, his career began at the age of 17, in 1943 serving throughout the Pacific, Asia and retired as a gunnery Sergeant E-7. He also served as a civilian for the federal government from 1962-1975.
"Jack" participated in the sweeping of numerous islands throughout the Pacific during WWII including the campaigns of Okinawa, Saipan and the Occupation of Japan with the 2nd Marine Division. He later served again in the Korean Conflict. Beginning in 1965 he was an instructor for troops maintaining radar and early detection equipment at Hunter Field.
After his retirement, he opened a coin shop in 1964. Jack also established the Coastal Georgia Archeological Society of Savannah, preserving local historical sites from indigenous Indian to Civil War era.
In the early 70's, he procured significant numbers of historical paper documents such as slave, legal and battle documents including the log book from the defeat of Fort Fisher, North Carolina by the Union army in 1863. His historical expertise led him to be known as "HISTORYMAN" in Savannah as well as throughout the country.
"Jack" was an avid fisherman and treasure seeker utilizing his adventuresome spirit enjoying the "thrill of the find", no matter where dive Jack dive it might have been. His quick wit and dry sense of humor amused, entertained and annoyed friends and family. Ultimately, Jack's Love of Country, Trust in God, and love of his family truly defined his character.
His wife Herminia V. Parks of Savannah, survived over 62 years with her man because, " he made me laugh 20 times a day". He is also survived by their three daughters,; Donna Parks of Savannah, wife of Kelly Schultz, Lynn Parks of Raleigh, NC , Laura Catlow of Bronson, FL wife of Timothy Catlow, granddaughter, Kersti Ferguson of New York NY; and grandsons, Kristopher Ferguson of Savannah and Randall Littmann of Raleigh NC. Great-grandsons Tyler and Lance Littmann. Also at his side were his nieces, Bonnie Parks McKee of Quarryville, PA; Lenor Villalobos Acedo of Tempe, AZ and brother in law, Claudio Villalobos of Tempe, AZ.
A service with full military honors will be held at Beaufort National Cemetery in Beaufort, SC, Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 13:30. Family and friends are invited.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Savannah.
Laura,although I was never very close to your father during our days I do remember you speaking of him with love. I was very sorry to hear of your loss.
- Donna Dow Ogletree, Guyton, GA
I got to know John Parks while working with the archaeology program at the University of Georgia Marine Extension Service on Skidaway Island. His contributions to the Center and the Archaeolgy Elderhostel Program there were greatly appreciated over the years as was his sense of humor and knowledge of local history. He will be missed by many. Edith Schmidt
- Edith Schmidt, Savannah, GA
At an early age I remember my father as a seeker and adventurer. He was always looking for treasures and took me along. Everything from historical paper to prehistoric sharks teeth. I can't imagine my world without him in it.....
- Laura Catlow, Bronson, GA
Nani, Our thoughts and prayers are you and your entire family.
- Bernardo De Anda & Family, South Gate, CA
Granpa, I miss you so very much already. You will always be in my heart and memories. I love you so much.
- Kersti Ferguson, New York, NY
I was thinking of you and your family last night when I was eating out, the tamales I had were no where as good as your mothers and yours. Everytime I think of our trip to Savannah I get a big smile on my face. Tatnell and Taylor, oyster roast and of course our shamrock sunglasses at 7:00am. Peace be you and your family Love you Paul
- Paul Householder, Etters, PA
Laura,although I was never very close to your father during our days I do remember you speaking of him with love. I was very sorry to hear of your loss.
- Donna Dow Ogletree, Guyton, GA
I got to know John Parks while working with the archaeology program at the University of Georgia Marine Extension Service on Skidaway Island. His contributions to the Center and the Archaeolgy Elderhostel Program there were greatly appreciated over the years as was his sense of humor and knowledge of local history. He will be missed by many. Edith Schmidt
- Edith Schmidt, Savannah, GA
At an early age I remember my father as a seeker and adventurer. He was always looking for treasures and took me along. Everything from historical paper to prehistoric sharks teeth. I can't imagine my world without him in it.....
- Laura Catlow, Bronson, GA
Nani, Our thoughts and prayers are you and your entire family.
- Bernardo De Anda & Family, South Gate, CA
Granpa, I miss you so very much already. You will always be in my heart and memories. I love you so much.
- Kersti Ferguson, New York, NY
I was thinking of you and your family last night when I was eating out, the tamales I had were no where as good as your mothers and yours. Everytime I think of our trip to Savannah I get a big smile on my face. Tatnell and Taylor, oyster roast and of course our shamrock sunglasses at 7:00am. Peace be you and your family Love you Paul
- Paul Householder, Etters, PA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
