Akii-Dabe Tomorrow Parks

Preface:

Reading my cousin Stuart’s obituary inspired me to take a step I’ve contemplated for years: writing my own obituary. Attached is my draft, which has helped me clarify what truly matters to me. Please feel free to use it if needed.

Warmly, Akii Composed: September 20, 2019

Akii-dabe ‘Akii’ Tomorrow Parks, XX born January 3, 1977 to Attorney Edward Y.A. Parks and Sequoyah Benn Parks in Columbus, Ohio graduated from Hampton University and lived in both New York City and Charlotte, NC after graduation. Akii was a successful Banker and started her career at Goldman Sachs in New York City and went on to have an over ‘40 year’ career in Banking at the premier Global Banks in leadership roles. Akii loved to explore through her many global travels which included Dubai, Italy and Ibizia. Akii was also a devoted Christian and often shared her faith. Akii was a homeowner, loved her gardens and all flowers and loved to read books consistently over 20 books a year. Akii always loved her family and Parker, her nephew, was the light of her life. Akii was a trusted friend to those who shared friendship and was compassionate to all. The last words Akii wants to share with all who ever read about her in this obituary is: Jesus is the one and only God. Believe in Jesus and read the Bible to seek understanding, his love and protection. 

Akii is survived by her sister Alkebu Shiloh Parks, Parker Edward Willis, Aunts Gwyn “Keema” Benn Abell (Dan), Cherie Benn Hardgrove, Anna Parks Carter, many cousins that were like brothers in her lifetime including Thomas Mccalab, Charles Bryson, Andrew Parks Carter, Arthur Parks Carter. Akii is preceded in death by grandparents that loved her dearly Beulah Benn and Charles Benn. Akii always had friends that were more like family from Hampton Alumni Jamila Williams and Tahira Wright to friends she met in her career and lifetime mentor Cindi Jones Hundley and through living in New York City and Charlotte, NC including Tosha Wesley and Lisa Davis. Akii loved animals and had a pet cat named Harrison for over 10 years. 

From The Family: 

In the tapestry of lives she touched, Akii stood as a radiant beacon of light. A forward thinker, she embodied thoughtfulness, determination, and a profound love for the Lord. Since the date she initially drafted her own obituary, numerous updates and revisions could have been made—reflecting the addition of new and additional family members and cherished friends who held a special place in her heart. Nevertheless, we have chosen to honor her original composition.

Akii is also survived by her mother, Sequoyah Parks, grandfather, Roy Parks Sr, niece Joanna Shiloh Porter, nephews Parker Edward Isaiah Willis and Royal King Porter. 

Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the Plans I have for you, “declares The Lord,” Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Psalml 34:18, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and he saves those who are crushed in spirit.