Rhonda Kay (Lea) Parks

Rhonda Kay Parks was born May 21, 1959, in Farmington, Missouri. She was the daughter of Donald Lea Sr. and Geraldine (Bacon). Rhonda passed away September 21, 2025, in Salem, Missouri, at the age of sixty-six years. Rhonda was the mother of two sons, Calvin and Al, whom she was very proud of. On June 26, 1999, she was united in marriage to John “Smokey” Parks, in Des Moines, Iowa. This union blended two families, and she gained four stepdaughters: Jenny, Shawna, Brandi, and Vicki. Rhonda’s intelligence, persistence, and dedication paved the way for her success, and she took great pride in her accomplishments. She earned her master’s degree at Metro Business College, in Rolla. She had a heart for helping and worked with Compass Health as a social worker for many years. Prior to her behavioral health career, she worked at Briggs and Stratton. Rhonda loved to shop and was a collector of many things. Her home was filled with dolls, Coca-Cola collectibles, and Precious Moments figurines. She enjoyed quilting for a time and liked doing diamond art. Rhonda was deeply dedicated to her family and their life accomplishments. She cherished her grandchildren and adored her great-grandchildren. Her faith, family, and friends were most important to her. Rhonda is survived by her husband: John “Smokey” Parks of Salem, MO; mother: Geraldine Lea of Salem, MO; sons: Calvin Myers II of Salem, MO and Al Myers of Springfield, MO; stepdaughters: Jenny Hensley and husband Will, Shawna Morgan and husband Tyrone; Brandi Boyer, and Vicki Clark and husband Eric all of Iowa; brothers: Donald Lea Jr. and Randy Lea both of Salem, MO; sisters: Brenda Richardson and husband James of Higbee, MO and Tressia Anderson and husband Ronnie of Salem, MO; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death was her father: Donald Lea Sr. Rhonda will be remembered for her kind spirit, compassionate heart, and sweet nature. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by those who knew and loved her. Rhonda will be forever missed. Funeral Services for Rhonda Kay (Lea) Parks were held Friday, September 26, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Charlie Younger and Pastor Jerry Lea officiating. Song selections played were “I Can Only Imagine”, “Scars In Heaven”, and “Angels By Your Side”. Serving as Pallbearers were Calvin Myers, Donald Lea Jr., Roger Anderson, Al Myers, Randy Lea, and Jamie Richardson. Honorary Pallbearers were her loving grandsons T.J., Cameran, Zach, Aaron, Austin, and Andy. Burial was in the Gladden Empire Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Condolences may be left online at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Rhonda Kay (Lea) Parks

May 21, 1959 - September 21, 2025