James William Parks, 70, of Springfield passed away on April 22, 2016, in his home, surrounded by his family. He was born April 18, 1946, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He married Elizabeth Anne Parks September 17, 1976, with whom he raised three children. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1965-1975. He also served in law enforcement in, Tucson, Arizona, and Springfield.

Jim is survived by his wife, Anne; his children, Lucas and wife Susan, Jamie Kessinger and husband Jeff, and Jonathan and wife Jenny; grandchildren Averi, Kenedi, Lawson, Ava, Romey, Finnegan, Abraham, and Ida; brothers, Robert, Tom, and Don; and sister, Kathy Posler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Merna Parks; and his brothers, Bill and Lou.

He was an active member of High Street Baptist Church, in Springfield, where he served as head of security. There was nothing Jim loved more than spending time with his grandchildren and traveling to visit family in Northern Ireland with Anne.

Visitation will be from 5:30-7:30 pm, Tuesday, April 26, 2016, in the High Street Baptist Church, Springfield. The memorial service will be held at 1 pm, Wednesday, April 27, also in the High Street Baptist Church with Pastor Eddie Lyons officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the KidStreet building project at High Street Baptist Church at 900 N. Eastgate, Springfield, 65802.