For nearly three decades, Mary Parks’ life was marked by television journalism in Riverside County and the Inland Empire on KNBC, KCBS, PBS, Charter Cable, The California Channel and SpectrumNews1, covering some of California’s major events such as the Northridge earthquakes, the O.J. Simpson trial, the Los Angeles riots and much more. Parks was a Pegasus Award winner, Associated Press Award winner, Los Angeles Press Club Award winner, Golden Mike Award winner for journalism, and an 11-time Emmy Award winner.

While being committed to the integrity of storytelling, Parks also dedicated a part of her life to philanthropy and service. As a sought-after host and emcee, she raised millions of dollars for different organizations. Her efforts spanned many topics, including LGBTQ+ rights, child advocacy and veteran issues.

In November 2020, Parks lost her tumultuous battle with brain cancer at the age of 58. Her legacy lives on as someone who cared about telling stories worth sharing.