Anita June Parks, 78, of Newark, died Saturday, June 21, 2025. She was born April 13, 1947 in Point Marion, PA to the late Marvin and Nellie (Mays) Welsh.

Anita was a devoted Christian woman whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. She never shied away from sharing the word of Jesus and lived as a faithful servant, both in word and deed. A proud member of Apostolic Temple, she was deeply committed to her church and community. Anita worked at Denison University for 29 years, where she served as Head Baker. Her talent in the kitchen was well known and deeply appreciated by students and staff alike. Outside of work, Anita loved to travel and cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. She also had a special place in her heart for her cats, who were constant companions in her later years. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her generous spirit, and the warmth she shared with everyone she met.

She is survived by her children, Aaron Parks, Kenny (Michelle) Parks and Matt (Melissa) Parks; grandchildren, Arianna, Cory (Elena), Logan, Julia, Austin (Alexandria) and Anna (Horizon); great grandchildren, Atlas and Augustus; brother, Jeremiah Welsh; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Kenneth Parks; daughter-in-law, Lori Spurgeon; two sisters; and five brothers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Anita to — Primate Rescue Center/ primaterescue.org

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Apostolic Temple, 2285 Rock Haven Rd., Newark, OH 43055.