Betty Hennis Parks

Betty Hennis Parks

Entered her heavenly home on April 5, 2026

To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord - 2 Corinthians 5:8

___________________________________________________________________

Betty Hennis Parks, a woman of steadfast faith, melodic spirit, and fierce devotion to her family, passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday.

At the heart of Betty’s life was her enduring love story with her husband, Brice Parks. Married for more than 40 years, their partnership was built on a christian foundation of mutual respect and unwavering loyalty. Betty’s devotion to Brice was a testament to the vows they took, and she carried his memory with her every day after his passing. Together, they built a home filled with warmth and a family that remains their proudest achievement.

Betty lived a life defined by service—to her God, her community, and most importantly, to her boys. She was a pillar of the First United Methodist Church in Galax, where her voice was a constant in the choir and her heart was deeply rooted in the fellowship of her Sunday School class. Her commitment to others extended into the community through her active membership in the Y’s Menettes, where she served faithfully for many years.

Beyond her volunteer work, Betty was a familiar and friendly face throughout the region. For many years, she worked for American Greetings, meticulously tending to the card aisles of many local stores. She became affectionately known to many as the "Card Lady", always ready with a kind word or a helping hand for neighbors looking for the perfect way to express their own feelings.

While her community work was impactful, Betty’s true North Star was her family. She was the matriarch who held every branch of her family tree with pride and unwavering love.

Betty is reunited in eternal rest with her beloved husband, Brice Parks; her parents, Harvey Hennis Sr. and Louise Porter; and her stepfather, Robert Porter.

Her legacy of love continues through:

• Her Sons: James (Katrina) Parks and Gray (Sena) Parks.
• Her Grandchildren: Chas (Lindsay) Parks, Hayley Parks, Madison Parks, Christian Parks, and Carly (Dalton) Shupe.
• Her Great-Grandchildren: Luke and Fallyn Parks, Bryce Shupe (arriving in September).
• Her Brother: Harvey (Guyda) Hennis

Those who knew Betty will remember her not just for her service, but for the joy she took in the simple, beautiful moments of life. Whether she was lifting her voice in the choir loft or sharing stories with her Sunday School friends, Betty radiated a warmth that made everyone feel at home. Above all, being a grandmother and great-grandmother was her greatest joy; she cherished every milestone, every visit, and every hug.

"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." - Thomas Campbell

Betty’s song has ended, but the melody lingers in the lives of the sons she raised, the grandchildren she adored, and the community she helped build. She will be deeply missed and forever celebrated.

Betty's funeral service will be held at First United Methodist Church on Saturday April 18, 2026 beginning at 4:00PM, with Rev. Richard Gregory officiating. Burial will follow in Felts Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 2:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to "The Parks Family Scholarship," organized by the Galax Foundation for Excellence in Education. To donate, mail contributions to PO Box 487, Galax, Virginia 24333 or click the link below:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/the-parks-family-scholarship