Leo Parks

Leo Parks, our beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend, was surrounded by love when he peacefully took the hand of Jesus and entered the gates of Heaven on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, at the age of 62. In his final moments, he was embraced by the presence of family and friends who cherished him dearly.

Leo was born on April 28, 1963, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, the cherished son of Rick and Natalia Wilson. Their love and guidance laid the foundation of his life, shaping him into a man known for his kindness, loyalty, faith and strength of both heart and spirit.

He graduated from Mayfield High School in 1981 and soon began working at Coca-Cola alongside his Uncle Jr. Those years were marked not only by hard work and dedication, but by laughter, shared stories, and the strengthening of family bonds. Leo believed in showing up, working hard, and taking pride in what he did.

That same sense of duty and courage led him to serve our country in the United States Navy. As a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, Leo stood for something greater than himself. His service reflected his deep love of our country and his willingness to protect and defend others. It was a quiet pride he carried with dignity throughout his life.

Above all else, Leo was a man of faith, love, and giving. He cared deeply for his family and friends and was always willing to lend a hand, offer a listening ear, or share a moment of laughter. He also had a lifelong love of sports and was a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan since childhood. He proudly cheered for the Chicago Cubs and the Texas Longhorns, rarely missing a game and always celebrating (or debating) the latest play. His presence brought comfort, and his memory will forever remain a blessing to those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Those left to mourn him are his parents, Rick & Natalia Wilson; his sisters, Marie Parks, Sonia Xiloyotl, & her husband, Oztolecoyotl; his brothers, Lawrence Parks (Kristen), Ricardo Wilson II & his wife Daniela, and KC Parks & his wife Marissa; Tonya and Joyce; as well as nine nieces and nephews and seven great-nieces and great-nephews who will carry his memory in their hearts forever.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Margo Parks; his maternal grandparents, Samuel & Juanita Fajardo, paternal grandparents Hershel & Helen Wilson; Leo Parks Sr, brother Leonel Parks and many beloved Uncles, Aunts and Cousins. We take comfort in imagining that beautiful reunion.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 27 at Our Lady of Purification Roman Catholic Church, located at 5525 Cristo Rey St, Doña Ana, New Mexico. A gathering will begin at 9:30 a.m., with the Rosary prayed at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment of ashes will take place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery 100 N Espina St., where he will be laid to rest with his sister Margo. Military honors, including a final salute, will be rendered at the graveside. Concluding the services you are invited to join the family for a reception at Our Lady of Purification Rectory Hall in Doña Ana.

Serving as pallbearer is his brother, Lawrence Parks. Honorary pallbearers are his brothers Ricardo Wilson II and KC Parks, Godchildren, Kyle Luchini and Gabriel Parks,

Leo’s life was one of service, faith, and love. Though he will be deeply missed, his family and friends find peace in knowing he now rests in eternal joy, embraced by God’s perfect love.