James Byron Parks, Jr.

James “Jim” Byron Parks, Jr., of Dallas, Texas, died in his sleep peacefully from heart complications on April 25, 2026. Born on April 8, 1947, Jim built a life marked by love for family and a fun-loving attitude that touched everyone who knew him.

Jim is survived by his wife, Martha Reynolds Parks, his devoted partner in a lifetime of travel, laughter, and shared joy. He is also survived by his sister Barbara Parks Hargrove; his children James Byron Parks, III and Valerie Parks Thomas (and her husband Tucker Thomas); and his beloved grandchildren Madison Sarah Parks, Emily Doris Thomas, and Natalie Reynolds Thomas. He leaves behind cherished extended family, including sisters-in-law Dina Nash (and her husband Jeff Nash), Margaret Powell, Becky Felton (and her husband Trent Felton), and his brother-in-law John Reynolds.

A proud Dallas native, Jim graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School before earning his business degree from the University of North Texas, an accomplishment he held dear. After college, he joined his father in the wholesale florist business, where he devoted 50 years to leading, growing, and shaping the company. His work allowed him and Martha the rare gift of seeing the world together, often through the unique lens of the floral industry he loved. Jim also contributed to the broader floral community by serving on the boards of the Society of American Florists and Wholesale Florists and Florist Suppliers of America.

Beyond his work, Jim embraced life with enthusiasm. He treasured his time fishing and boating on Lake Texoma, playing golf, and enjoying the simple pleasures of time spent at his lakehouse—riding motorcycles, watching TV, or cruising the neighborhood in his golf cart. He loved his dogs, delighted in frequent trips to Las Vegas with Martha, and never passed up a chance to dance or enjoy good music. His service in the National Guard was a point of pride, as was the family he built and supported with boundless affection.

legacy lives on in the family he adored, the industry he helped shape, and the countless stories shared by those fortunate enough to have known him.

The family would like to thank Jim’s caregivers and medical professionals, including Lisa Kirven and Gracie Ali. We would be grateful to any friends wishing to make a donation to the charity of their choice in Jim’s name.

Visitation will be held at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home, 7405 West Northwest Highway, Dallas, TX 75225, US, on May 11, 2026, from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location on May 11, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.