Velma Rubye Parks, 89, of Delano, died Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at Etowah Health Care Center. A native of Polk County, and a resident of Delano for most of her life, she was a member of Delano Baptist Church. A daughter of the late Young and Cleo Wood, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Paul Wood, Freeman Wood and Johnny Wood. She was a devoted mother and friend. During the last 21 years, she enjoyed traveling with her children everywhere, from Walmart to California. She was an avid gardener and homemaker. She lived her religion daily inside and outside the church, putting Christ first always. Survivors include one son, Darrell Lafon Parks of Delano; one daughter, Phylis Dianne Parks of Delano; one sister-in-law, Christine Wood of Delano; one niece and one nephew. Graveside services will be noon Wednesday at Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. No formal visitation will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, P.O. Box 7669, Atlanta, GA 30357-0669.

Bordwine Funeral Home of Etowah is in charge of arrangements.