William M. "Bill" Parks

William M. “Bill” Parks of Waco, Texas, passed away Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the age of 100. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Waco Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel, with Pastor Wayne Williams officiating.

Bill was born on March 28, 1926, in Waxahachie, Texas, to Charles and Nannie Mae Parks. He grew up in Waxahachie and graduated from high school in 1944. Prior to his 18th birthday, he enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps, where he trained to become a tail gunner for a B-29. Shortly before his crew was scheduled to pick up a new bomber to fly to the Pacific, Japan surrendered, and their mission was canceled. Bill received his discharge in August 1946 and immediately enrolled in Baylor University.

During Bill’s time at Baylor, he met Ann Cruse of Rosenthal, and they married in December 1949 following his graduation. The highlight of their marriage was the birth of their daughter, Peggy, in January 1965.

Bill spent the first 12 years of his professional career in the insurance industry at William M. Parks Co. The next 12 years were spent in the Trust Department at First National Bank, followed by many years as a stockbroker. He retired from UBS Financial Services at the age of 82.

Bill was a longtime member of First Methodist Church of Waco and Ridgewood Country Club, where he loved playing golf. He also enjoyed Baylor football games and spending time at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. Bill spent many Saturdays at his ranch, where he entertained numerous church groups and friends over the years.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ann Parks, and his sister, Charlene Rice. He is survived by his daughter, Peggy Parks Rush (David), of Waco; and his niece, Saundra South (Joe Mac), of Grapevine.

Honorary pallbearers are the members of the Wesleyan Workers Chapel Class at First Methodist Church of Waco.

We invite you to leave a message or memory of Bill in his "Memorial Guestbook" at www.WHBfamily.com.