Larry W. Parks

Larry W. Parks, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri. He was 76 years old.

Born on April 9, 1950, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Larry grew up with an abiding sense of joy and a spirit of generosity that would become hallmarks of his character throughout his life. Those who knew him will recall his happy disposition, his friendly nature, and his remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went. Never one to know a stranger, Larry loved people deeply, approached life with a caring and God-Fearing heart, and delighted in telling jokes and teasing, filling any room with laughter and warmth.

Larry dedicated 35 years of his working life to General Motors, LLC—a career marked by diligence and integrity—before his well-earned retirement in 2020. Through his years at General Motors, he was respected not only for his hard work but for the kindness and encouragement he brought to his colleagues.

The foundation of Larry’s life was his family, of whom he was most proud. Larry’s marriage of 45 years to his cherished wife, Melissa Parks, begun on July 11th, was a testament to love, strength, and partnership. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, care, and shared memories.

He is survived by his beloved wife Melissa; his children Lonny Parks, Laura Bronson (Mike Pacie), Amanda Parks, and Christina Vann (Joshua); his grandchildren Cassandra Braswell (Logan), Mae Still (Andrew), Courtney Welch (Theo), Ethan Parks, Kaiden Vann, Kieran Vann, River Vann, Michael Mosley, Corterion Steed, Donald Cotton, and Eden Thomas; his great-grandchildren Harlow Still, A.J. Still, Lincoln Braswell, Blair Braswell, and Aurelien Welch; and his brother William Parks (Karen). Larry never missed an opportunity to talk about the pride he felt in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who remain his enduring legacy.

Larry’s life was also enriched by treasured memories: family vacations, family game nights, and countless afternoons spent hunting, fishing, or on the softball field. He was a lifelong fan of baseball and football, loved listening to Christian music, found great joy in attending New Life Saint Louis church, and cherished every moment spent with those he loved most.

He is preceded in death by his grandson, Andrew Bronson, and his parents, A.J. and Geneva Parks.

A visitation will be held on August 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, St. Peters, located at 837 Mid Rivers Mall Dr, St. Peters, MO 63376. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., also at Newcomer Funeral Home, St. Peters.

Those who knew Larry will remember him as a man of heart and humor, faith and steadfastness, whose life touched those around him in countless meaningful ways. His laughter, kindness, and example of unwavering love for his family will remain treasured and deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests making a donation to New Life Academy by clicking here or the Alzheimer's Association , linked below, in Larry's memory.