Henry James ‘Hank’ Parks, interior designer

Henry James "Hank" Parks, 91, of Millsboro, formerly of Cherry Hill, N.J., passed away at home in the care of hospice Thursday, May 13, 2021, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born July 15, 1929, in Ocean Grove, N.J., son of the late John Aloysius and Florence Fern (Beresford) Parks.

Mr. Parks was a graduate of North Arlington High School in New Jersey. He was also a member of New Jersey National Guard between 1948-56. On March 3, 1951, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Betty" Bain Elliot in Newark, N.J.

Mr. Parks was very skilled as an interior designer who made draperies and slipcovers. He enjoyed a 60-year career and was the sole proprietor of his business. Mr. Parks was an avid surfer and snow skier, but his passion was the shore. He taught himself how to surf, and taught his two sons and three nephews as well. A Christian man of faith, he did set designs with his wife Betty for vacation Bible school. Above all, he enjoyed time spent with those he held most dear. Mr. Parks was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mr. Parks was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Elizabeth Bain Elliot; and his brother, Jack Parks. He  is survived by his children: H. David Parks (Lee) of Millsboro, Daniel Parks (Kara) of Augusta, Maine,  Susan Parks of Winston-Salem, N.C., and Nancy Parks of Cherry Hill, N.J.;  his grandchildren: Christopher Barrie (Korin), Matthew Parks (Amanda), Jonathan Parks (Molly), Collin, Maci and Fiona; his great-grandchildren: Miles, Molly, Evelyn, Bodhi, Brae, Zoey, Sloane, and Jack; his loving sister-in-law, Ann Parks of Tequesta, Fla.; and his several nephews and their families.

Funeral services will be held at a later date at his home church, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 499 Marlton Pike East, Cherry Hill. Arrangements have been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest contributions in Mr. Park's memory to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, who provided wonderful, compassionate care and were our blessing these last 10 months.

Please visit Mr. Parks’ Life Memorial Webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.