Lana Parks Finley left this world on March 17, 2019 as gracefully as she lived in it.

Born in Graham on Sept. 25, 1951, to Jim Hal and Betty Lou Parks, Lana moved with her family to Eastland in 1960, where she excelled in academics and sports throughout her school days. After graduation from Eastland High School, she married her forever love, Terry Finley and, in 1972, they welcomed the joy of their lives, daughter Kimberly Ann.

Even as a young wife and mother, Lana pursued her education and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from East Texas State University, which launched her seventeen-year career as a teacher making a difference in young peoples’ lives.

Terry‘s job took them to Mount Pleasant, Plano, Palestine, Spring and finally Bentwater in Montgomery, where they settled to enjoy retirement. Together they enjoyed family visits, travel and golf. Both completed the New York Marathon in 1994.

The centers of Lana’s universe were her husband Terry, daughter Kimberly Barnfield (Matthew), and her precious granddaughters, Julia and Madeline Barnfield, for whom she granted as many wishes as she possibly could. 

Lana Finley was a loyal and steadfast friend, a dedicated teacher and a beautiful soul.  Those fortunate enough to come into her light will remember her in their hearts forever. Graveside services scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, March 30 in the Eastland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Lana’s family requests memorial donations be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation (glioblastomafoundation.org).