James "Catchup" Parks

With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of our beloved son, James, who left this world far too soon. Though his time with us was brief, the light he brought into every room, the loyalty he showed his friends, and his rebellious spirit will remain with us always.

Born June 3,1991, James’s journey began with humble roots in Alma, Georgia. His childhood unfolded in the warm community of Yemassee, South Carolina, before he spent his later teenage years in Beaufort. From those early days he carried a spirit of determination and kindness that never faded.

He attended Agape Christian Academy through elementary and middle school, then graduated from Beaufort Academy. Eager to keep learning and growing, he went on to High Point University in North Carolina. James was talented, hard-working, and enthusiastic in everything he pursued. Mechanically gifted like his father, he built a versatile career as a skilled mechanic, a high-end flooring designer and installer, and a locksmith—always taking pride in work well done and with care.

Outside of work, James found joy in the things that lit him up: an avid love of manga and a passionate toy collection that mirrored his father’s. He also developed a lifestyle in a motorcycle club alongside his uncle Charlie Simmons, a brotherhood that brought him many devoted friends who became like a second family. Through shared rides, loyalty, and camaraderie, these bonds enriched his life and reflected the same steadfast heart he showed everyone he loved. James was a loyal friend whose steady presence and warm spirit made those around him feel seen and valued. Most of all, he was a devoted father to his daughter, Phantom Amber Parks, who was the greatest joy of his life.

James is survived by his loving parents, Katherine Ella Louise Parks and Mitchell Scott Simmons; his daughter, Phantom Amber Parks; his brothers, Mitchell Scott Simmons II and Robert Lewis Simmons; his sisters, Kassidy Nicole Simmons and Riley Elizabeth Simmons; his grandparents, Jimmy “Granny” Taylor and John Lewis Simmons; and his uncles Charlie Edward Simmons, Johnny Banks, and William Parks.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Beverly Simmons and Archie Brantley Taylor, and his uncle Robert Banks.

James’s life was marked by quiet perseverance, genuine enthusiasm, deep loyalty, and the chosen family he found on the open road. He leaves behind a family who loved him fiercely, friends who will never forget the way he showed up for them, and a motorcycle brotherhood that will carry his memory with honor. Though our hearts ache at his absence, we are grateful for every moment we shared with him—every smile, every shared interest, every ordinary day made brighter by his presence.

Rest gently, James. You were loved beyond measure, and you will be missed beyond words.

Funeral Services will be 3 PM on Friday, September 4, 2026, in the Chapel of Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home.

Visitation will begin at 2 PM and last until the hour of the service at Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home, Hampton Chapel, located at 300 Mulberry St. W., Hampton, SC 29924.

Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home is assisting the Parks and Simmons family during this time.