Laurie Alexander Parks, Jr. (“L.A.”)

Laurie Alexander Parks, Jr. (“L.A.”), 95, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at his home in Cleveland, NC.

He was born May 3, 1931, in Lenoir, NC, to the late Laurie Alexander Parks and Rose Sherrill Parks. A longtime resident of Statesville, L.A. had a deep love for his hometown, family, and the friendships he developed throughout his life.

He graduated from Statesville High School in 1949, where he was a proud member of the undefeated football team. He continued his education at Davidson College and, following graduation, served in the United States Army at Fort Jackson, SC.

Following his military service, L.A. returned to Statesville and began his real estate career at the family business, Parks Realty, alongside his father and brother, Sherrill. He married the love of his life, Frances Hager, in 1963, and together they raised three children. Later in life, L.A. discovered a passion for teaching real estate classes at Mitchell College, where he helped launch the careers of many local Realtors.

A charter member of Forest Park Presbyterian Church, established in 1960, L.A. faithfully served as both a deacon and an elder. His faith remained a guiding presence throughout his life.

He was actively involved in the Statesville community through the Jaycees, Kiwanis Club, Board of Realtors, Chamber of Commerce, Airport Commission, and the board of Statesville Broadcasting, associated with WSIC Radio. He especially enjoyed serving on the Airport Commission, combining his love of aviation with community service. He also devoted many years to volunteering with Special Olympics and Hospice.

A lifelong learner with a wide range of interests, L.A. earned his private pilot's license, operated a ham radio, and enjoyed astronomy and technology. He loved music, particularly the banjo, ukulele, and harmonica, and enjoyed dancing, especially the Carolina shag. He also had a lifelong love of the beach.

Above all, L.A. was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Known for his humility, kindness, and generous spirit, he had a special way of making others feel valued. Whether sharing a word of encouragement, a good joke, or one of his familiar gold dollar coins, he found joy in bringing a smile to someone's face.

In addition to his parents and stepmother, Gladys V. Parks, L.A. was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frances Hager Parks; his sister, Shirley Parks Leonard (Taylor); his brother, Sherrill Parks (Virginia); his stepbrother, Bob Leapord; in-laws, Nancy Blankenship (Arthur), Jerry Hager (Jennie), Richard Hager (Lynn); and niece, Carol Lytton.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Laura Parks Thompson, Suzanne Parks McLelland (Eddie), and Chip Parks; five grandchildren, Alex McLelland (Laura), Megan McLelland, Parks Thompson (Taylor), Connor Thompson (Carly), and Lizzie Thompson Benton (DJ); and three great-grandchildren, Emersyn McLelland, Everly Thompson, and Rowan Benton; in-laws, Mike Hager (Liza), Dennis Hager (Tim), and Claudine Leapord as well as many nieces and nephews and extended family.

Even in his later years, L.A. remained grateful for the life he had been given and often reflected on how blessed he was. A favorite saying, displayed on a sign given to him by a dear friend, was, “It's a Good Day to Have a Good Day.” It was a fitting reflection of his outlook on life and the example he leaves for his family and all who knew him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to L.A.’s devoted personal care aides, whose loving attention, kindness, and companionship brought him comfort and joy in his final days. Special thanks also to the staff of Carolina Caring for their compassion and support.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Forest Park Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Scott Jeffreys officiating. Full military honors will be rendered in recognition of L.A.’s service to his country.

Memorials may be made to Forest Park Presbyterian Church, 1026 Davie Avenue, Statesville, NC 28677; Special Olympics Iredell County, c/o Statesville Recreation and Parks, 1875 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625; or the Mitchell Community College Foundation, c/o Mitchell Community College Advancement Office, 500 W. Broad St., Statesville, NC 28677.

Troutman Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of L.A. Parks, Jr.