Samuel Parks Watson's Obituary
Samuel Parks Watson, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025 at the age of 79 years. He was born June 1, 1946 to his mother, Val Marie Brandon Watson and his father William A. Watson.
Parks graduated from Catholic High School and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Memphis State University. Almost his entire employment was spent within his family’s business, Film Transit, Inc. in two of their locations in Memphis and in Jackson, Mississippi. During years when he was employed by Texaco, the family relocated to Houston, Texas, where their daughter was born. An opportunity to return to Memphis to rejoin his family business was chosen for his final working years prior to retirement.
Parks was united in marriage to Sue Ellen Pharis in Fisher Memorial Gardens at Rhodes College (formally known as Southwestern at Memphis). On June 21st this year, the couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary together. Parks trusted and valued his brother-in-law John R. Pharis, who rendered significant help to him, especially in the final years of his life.
Parks was a devoted and loving father to Cecelia Alexandre Watson, who benefits from his guidance throughout her life and grieves his absence.
Additional survivors include his brother, stepbrother, maternal cousins and good friends.
Parks was an ordained Deacon in the Presbyterian US Church and a current member of Idlewild Presbyterian Church.
A graveside burial service will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Idlewild Presbyterian Church, 1750 Union Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38104, or to a charity of one’s choice.
A service to honor Parks’ memory will be determined by the family and will be announced at a later date.
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