Harvey Leon Parks was born on July 13, 1940, in Griffin, Georgia, to George M. Parks and Clendy Mae (Walker) Parks. Harvey was the second of six children who then moved to Atlanta, Georgia, ultimately settling in Columbus, Ohio were all six children were raised. Harvey graduated from Central High School where he was a star Scholar-athlete, playing semi-pro football, collecting numerous awards including two 300 rings in bowling, and rising to become a champion golfer.
Harvey accepted Christ at an early age and was an active member of World Harvest Church prior to moving to Fort Worth Texas last year. Known for being a man of very few words, Harvey let his actions speak for who he was both in his professional and personal life. At the age of 18, Harvey began working as a Lazarus truck driver, where he became known for his incredible work ethic, and retired after working as a warehouse supervisor for the State of Ohio. His dedication and commitment to providing for his family earned him the respect of his co-workers and the admiration of his loved ones. Harvey was affectionately known as “Mr. Fix It” by his grandchildren. His nickname came from his amazing gift to fix any–and seemingly every–thing that broke. Harvey’s natural talents for piecing these types of puzzles back together amazed his grandchildren and family.
Harvey met his beloved wife Marie Annette (Grant) Parks at Love Zion Baptist Church and together they fostered an inspirational marriage of 62 years, building a beautiful family together of daughter Marie Antionette (Glenn) Forbes and son Duane M. Parks.
Blessed to have been able to retire at the age of 60, Harvey and Marie spent their “golden years” traveling, supporting their children, and spoiling their grandchildren. They took numerous trips around the world with friends and family. If ever wondering where Harvey had disappeared on one such trip, a good bet was that he had found a golf course somewhere and was showing his impressive golfing skills.
Diagnosed with Dementia-Alzheimer’s in 2015, Harvey stayed true to character and out-performed all doctors’ expectations, fighting to stay with his wife and family. As the disease progressed, Harvey found comfort in music, singing, and dancing, a fact that brought a smile to everyone around him. He particularly enjoyed the O’Jays, James Brown, or anything with a good beat. His loving wife Marie faithfully took care of him and stood by his side every step of the way, even holding him in her arms as he was called home to glory.
Harvey was a cherished brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, having imparted his wisdom and symbolizing strength and what it means to be the head of a family to all he encountered. He is survived by his siblings, older brother George (Bonnie) Parks, and younger siblings Eddie (Debby) Parks, Annette Mizelle, Wyley “Skip” Parks, and Gerri Gary, sister and brother-in-law Curtis (Julia) Towns, and leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews. Harvey also has an army of grandchildren to carry his legacy, including Andre Lamont Southern, Marie Angelique Southern, Marcus (Danyelle) Forbes, Glenn Forbes II, Kantrelle Forbes, Mason Forbes, and great-grandson Myles Forbes.
Visitation 11:00 AM and Funeral Service 12:00 PM Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE East, 5456 East Livingston Ave. Interment at Glen Rest Memorial Estates.
May God bless and keep you in His care.
Harvey was a wonderful person. I went to Dana Elementary, Starling Jr high and then Central. He was a good friend, kind, Gentle, good ethics. So sorry for your loss. So glad you all got to travel together. May God Bless his soul.
I will miss you my Brother (BA, BA) and the whole Family I will be there. Maybe one of the kindness Brother I grew up for over 60yrs. LOVE YOU MY NUBIAN BROTHER, ALL MY FAMILY, GOD SPEED
Went to Central High School with Harvey and played baseball and football together, he was a great athlete but was a better person. We also lived on the same street in Southfield. Harvey was a special special person, RIP my brother, love always,
I worked with Harvey at Lazarus. He was an inspiration and I feel blessed to have known him. He was a great man. I always loved being around him.
Duane and Family – We’re sending our Prayers and Sincere Love during this really hard time.
Calvin and Terri Higgins
My Heartfelt Condolences!!! May God comfort and give the family strength during this difficult time. Rest In Heaven Mr.Harvey Parks.
My sincere condolences to Eddie and Annette and the Park family on the home going of your brother Harvey. God has him in loving arms. God bless all of you.
To Marie and Family. We are so sorry to learn about the passing of our Beloved Harvey. Rest in Peace our Brother. Praying for you, the family and friends during this very difficult time. I (Annette) met Harvy and you when I worked at Lazarus. May GOD’S hope filled promises bring comfort to you and the family and Peace to your heart.
In Christian Love and Heartfelt Sympathy.
Rev’s Norman & Annette (Cochran) Barber and family.
Edmond, Oklahoma
My Sincerest Condolences to the Parks family. Prayers of comfort and peace.
I wish to offer my condolences to the family of my friend Harvey Parks.