April 4, 2024, 78, Goldsboro —
Antoinette Nickens Parks, 78, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, April 4, 2024, after fighting a long hard battle with Parkinson’s Disease. She was born in Nash County to the late Hubert Edward Nickens, Sr., and Helen Pate Nickens. In addition to her parents, Antoinette was preceded in death by her brother, Hubert Edwards Nickens, Jr.
Antoinette was gifted with musical talent and faithfully shared what the Lord had given her. A charter member of Adamsville Baptist Church, she happily served as pianist and organist for the church. She was grateful for the gift of music and was careful to return the gift back to God through service in the church. Fully dedicated to the life and ministry of the church, Antoinette also served as the secretary and worked with the youth groups.
Starting her teaching career as a kindergarten teacher at Adamsville Baptist Church, Antoinette later went on to work with Wayne County Public Schools as a teacher’s assistant. Enjoying her time in the classroom and recognizing her impact on the lives of young children, Antoinette returned to the classroom as a student herself, going to East Carolina University to get her Master’s degree in early childhood education. From there, she became a 3rd-grade teacher at Meadow Lane School. Gaining recognition as a National Board-certified teacher, Antoinette continued pouring into the lives of young children until her retirement after thirty-five years.
Loyal to family and friends, those who were closest to Antoinette knew that she was their biggest advocate, strongest support, and best friend. Her favorite activity to share with others was camping, and she most enjoyed her camping trips in the mountains and at the beach.
The family will receive friends on Monday, April 8, 2024, from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate Antoinette’s life at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Michael Wright and Rev. Ray Brown officiating. Interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
Antoinette is survived by her husband of 58 years, Samuel S. Parks; her children, David Joe Parks and wife, Erika of Cape Coral, FL and Angela Parks Floars and husband, Johnny of Goldsboro; and grandchildren, Randy Floars of Newberry, SC, Carl Floars of Boynton Beach, FL , Adrien Floars of Goldsboro and Joseph Parks of Cape Coral, FL. She is also survived by her special friend and caregiver, Tina Brooks as well as her beloved cat, Jingle Bells.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in her memory to Gentiva Hospice, 2309 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, Adamsville Baptist Church, 1302 N. Berkeley Blvd., Goldsboro, NC 27534, or the charity of one’s choice.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
