Gary Parrish

Gary Parrish, 69, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on July 14, 1956, to Daniel and Minnie “Alice” Parrish, Gary was a proud son of North Florida whose life reflected the values of hard work, humility, and quiet kindness. He believed in treating people with respect, lending a helping hand, and letting his actions speak louder than words.

Gary dedicated more than 30 years of his life to a career in corrections, serving with integrity and commitment. Outside of work, he found his greatest joy in life’s simple pleasures. Whether fishing, boating, working on a carpentry project, or spending time outdoors, Gary was most at home creating, fixing, and enjoying God’s creation.

Gary will be remembered not for grand speeches or public recognition, but for the steady, dependable way he lived his life. He was a man who enjoyed working with his hands, loved being on the water, and treasured the people he loved. His legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the family who will continue to honor him by living the values he quietly demonstrated every day.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Minnie “Alice” Parrish; his brother, Robert “Robbie” Parrish; Brother-n-Law Edward Redding and his beloved grandson, Bruce Washburn.

He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Parrish; his children, Misty Willmon (Butch), Jody Washburn (Rusty), Brady Parrish (Daniva), Jeremy Parrish (Mindi), and Brian Emery; his cherished grandchildren, Erica, Sara, Alexis, Devin, Nathan, Dylan, Destiny, Jeremy Paul, and Davis; his sisters, Elaine Redding and Kathy Hughes (Walt); his brothers, Chuck Parrish (Nancy), Keith Parrish (Wendy), and Kevin Parrish (Erica); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. July 18, 2026, at Elzey Chapel Cemetery, 13372 SW 52nd Street, Lake Butler, Florida 32054, where Gary will be laid to rest among family and in the community that always remained close to his heart. Following the graveside service, the family invites all relatives and friends to join them at the Lulu Community Center, 205 SE Community Drive, Lulu, Florida 32061, for a time of fellowship and remembrance.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23