Obituary

Wilbur REFLECTIONS of Life

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the Heavens.

A Time To Be Born (ECC 3:2)

Wilbur Parks, affectionately known by many names including Satellite, Lite, Pops, and Papa Lite-was born on January 15, 1945, to the late Buddy Smith and Annie Bell Parks. He was the eldest of four siblings, the late Seyvelle Parks, sister Sandra Childs-Green, and brother Ronnie Childs.

A Time To Líve (ECC 3:12)

Wilbur grew up in the Greenwood, South Carolina area and later graduated from Brewer High School. He enlisted in the Army in the early 1970s and was stationed in Alexandria, Virginia. Wilbur spent 20 years working for Amtrak in various roles, retiring in 2004. Following his retirement, he continued to stay active by working for a car rental company, transporting vehicles. He had a love for word puzzles and a fondness for classic western movies. His hobby and chance to dream big was playing the lottery, particularly the thrill of scratch-off tickets. Known for his humorous take on life, Wilbur had a unique way of delivering wisdom-his words always carried a message, and his humor often pointed the way forward.

A Time To Love (ECC3:8)

Wilbur was a proud father of four children. His daughter Debbie Arnold of Greenwood, South Carolina. He met his life partner, the late Diane Reed, in Alexandria, Virginia, and together they raised their daughter, Tynkie Reed-Countee, as well as two sons, Corey Reed and Damien Reed.

Over the years, they lived in various locations across Virginia, settling in Richmond, where they spent the last three years.

A Time To Mourn (ECC 3:4)

Wilbur was preceded in death by his parents Buddy Smith and Annie Bell Parks and brother Seyvelle Parks. His memory will be embedded in the heart of his daughters, Debbie Arnold, and Tynkie Reed-Countee (Tim Countee); sons Corey Reed (Nadine Reed) and Damien Reed; five grandchildren Jeremiah, Jaylin, Eliana, Ke’Andra, and Terrence. Three great-grandchildren. Two siblings Sandra Childs-Green and Ronnie Childs: a host of family to include nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A Time To Die (ECC 3:2)

Wilbur was unexpectedly called into eternal rest on May 15, 2025, in the comfort of his home in Richmond VA. He will be deeply missed by all of those who loved him.