Helen Corinne Parks

Helen (Sherman) Parks peacefully went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 8, 2026, two days shy of her 99th birthday.

Helen Corinne was born March 10, 1927 to Walter and Grace (Gerber) Sherman on the family farm near Worthing SD joining older sister Lois. 18 months later sister Jacqueline joined the family. Helen graduated 8th grade as Valedictorian of Lincoln County Rural Schools. After graduating high school in Lennox SD in 1944 she attended summer school at General Beadle Teachers College in Madison SD. She started teaching the fall of 1944 at the age of 17 with special permission due to a teacher shortage because of World War II. One of the highlights of her teaching career was working at the Maxwell Colony in Hutchinson County SD.

Helen married Denver Parks on June 7, 1946. To this union Judith Ann, James Alan, and Daniel Dean were born. Denver’s job took the family to Menno SD where they lived for 24 years. In 1973 Denver, Helen, and Dan moved to Webster SD. Denver and Helen retired in 1979 moving to Casa Grande AZ where they both continued to work part-time and were active in the Methodist Church. Helen was the charter member with the Casa Grande Senior Phone Patrol, SALT (Seniors and Law Officers Together), and the Sun Life Reading to Children Program. In January of 2017 Helen moved into the Legacy Place Independent Living Apartments at the Good Samaritan Saint Martin Village in Rapid City SD where she resided until her death. Along with her many friends and acquaintances she enjoyed the activities and events provided, even serving on the Board.

Survivors include her children Judith (Ken) Vahle of Rapid City SD, James (Janis) Parks of Tucson AZ and Daniel (Judy) Parks of Rapid City SD. Grandchildren Justin (Catherine), Darin, Elizabeth (Matthew), Michael (Amber), Amy (TJ), Matthew (Shyane). Great-grandchildren Melsanena (Logan), Tamalyza, Lathan, Madison, Macy, Emilia, Zoe, Brodey, Emma, Sophia and Austin. Great-great-grandson Airen.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Denver her husband of 65 years, two sisters Lois Eisland and Jacqueline Granum, and one precious great-grandson Jacob.

Helen has left her family and many friends a LEGACY of love, respect, and kindness toward all - a shining example for all to follow.

Helen’s Celebration of Life will be at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at St. Martin Village Chapel (4825 Jericho Way).

Burial will be at the Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis SD at a later date.

Memorial donations can be made to Good Samaritan Society, Foundation Dept (Helen Parks), Attn Shonna Mueller, 4825 Jericho Way, Rapid City SD 57702