Joy J. Parks

Joy Janiece (Bowman) Parks, 82, of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Friday (October 17, 2025) at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

Born April 16, 1943 in Westmoreland, Kansas, Joy was the daughter of Ora and Helen (Merryman) Bowman. Joy was baptized at age 2 and was a longtime active member of the Louisville Community Church.

A 1961 graduate of Wamego High School, Joy attended Beauty School in Manhattan, Kansas and had a 60 year career in cosmetology in Wamego.

In her younger years, Joy enjoyed playing softball. An avid Kansas State Wildcat fan, Joy was a season ticket holder for 60 years. For many years, she was a member of 4-H, raising polled Hereford cattle, doing gardening, cooking and sewing projects.

On November 2, 1962, she married James Parks and to this union was born two sons, Kerry and Kyle. Joy and James were later divorced.

Survivors include her two sons, Kerry Alan and his wife Kim of Salina, KS and Kyle Lynn of Iowa City, IA.

Joy leaves behind her beloved Blue Heeler dog, Rex and four beautiful cats.

Graveside services will be held Thursday morning (January 22, 2026) at 11:00 at the Louisville Cemetery with Pastor Jim Lowary officiating.

There is no visitation but friends are invited to attend the graveside service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Louisville Community Church or the animal organization of the donors choice. Please make checks payable to the organization of your choice and those may be sent to Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.