Susan Jagel Parks

Susan “Sue” Jagel Parks, 82, of Great Falls, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on July 11, 2026, following complications from a heart attack she suffered on June 30. She passed away holding the hand of her beloved husband of 62 years.

Sue was born on December 4, 1943, in New York City to Richard Jagel Sr. and Anna Roeder Jagel.

In 1963, while attending Tusculum University in Tennessee, Sue met the love of her life, Stephen Davis Parks. They married in 1964 and shared 62 years together, building a life filled with beautiful family memories, travel, and wonderful, lasting friendships.

Sue devoted herself to creating a warm, loving home and raising their three children. During those years, she volunteered with the Girl Scouts, offering guidance, encouragement, and leadership to countless young people. Determined to be home when her children returned from school each day, she sought work that fit her family’s priorities and eventually built it into a thriving business. She took great pride in watching all three of her children graduate from college and begin their own paths.

Her entrepreneurial success allowed her to devote increasing time to the volunteer work and charitable causes that became such an important part of her life. She shared her love of travel by volunteering for more than 34 years with Travelers Aid at Washington Dulles International Airport, warmly welcoming and assisting travelers from around the world. She also devoted over 45 years as a National Park Service volunteer, serving at Wolf Trap, Ford’s Theatre, the White House, and other historic sites.

As a 35 year cancer survivor, Sue believed deeply in sharing her good fortune with others. Her philanthropic spirit extended far beyond her volunteer service. She was a proud supporter of the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, contributing both her time and a significant financial gift that helped strengthen the organization she loved so dearly. Sue also personally financed the construction of a community well in Ghana and supported the expansion of Adonai Royal Christian Academy, creating wonderful opportunities that will benefit families for generations. She found profound fulfillment in giving back and helping communities near and far.

Sue found great joy in traveling the world with Steve, tending her garden, and spending precious time with friends. Her life was truly defined by generosity, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to helping others.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Stephen “Steve” Parks; her siblings, Richard (Martha) Jagel, Betty Lecuit, and Linda (Tim) Ferguson; her three children, Laurie DeLand (Matt Alfano), Stephen “Steve” Parks Jr. (Amy Domagala), and Dawn (John) Grinstead; and her three cherished grandchildren, Amanda DeLand, Jason DeLand, and James Patrick.

A Celebration of Sue’s Life will be held on September 26, 2026. Additional details will be shared with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sue’s honor to: Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, Travelers Aid IAD, Miriam’s Kitchen, Adonai Royal Christian Academy, or to a charitable organization of your choice.

Sue believed that a meaningful life was measured by the lives we touch. She hoped to leave a legacy of philanthropy, kindness, and service to others, and her family finds deep comfort in knowing that legacy lives on through the many people and communities whose lives she enriched.