A life celebration for Byron O’Neal Parrish “Pops”, age 81, of Fayetteville, TN will be conducted at 3 PM on Sunday, September 22, 2019, at Higgins Funeral Home. A visitation with the family will be from 1 PM until the time of service at 3 PM at Higgins on Sunday.
Byron was born on December 14, 1937 in Post, Texas to the late Amber O’Neal and Jewel Richie Parrish. He was known as Perry while serving in the United States Army for 20 years and 5 months. During his service, Mr. Parrish was an electronics teacher for building missiles and TVs. During the Korean War, he flew in a helicopter and drew up maps from what he saw and was later stationed in Germany. He was an avid bowler and a member of HUSBC. Mr. Parrish passed away on September 18, 2019 at Lincoln Medical Center.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Mary Louise Simmons Parrish; sons, Patrick (Andrea) Parrish of Flintville, TN and Andrew Parrish of Middleburg, FL; daughter-in-law, Sherry Parrish; grandchildren, Matthew Parrish, William Parrish, Travis Parrish, Olivia Parrish, Byron Parrish, III, Tasha Pair, and James (Ally) Mennenga; great-grandchildren, Harmony Stubblefield and Keanu Parrish; and brother, Ronnie Parrish of Post, TX. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Byron O’Neal Parrish, Jr.; and siblings, Jimmie Parrish, Wayne Travis Parrish, and Ernest D. Parrish.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Mr. Byron O’Neal Parrish.
What a sweet man “Pops” was. He was a joy to watch while he bowled and when he couldn’t, he cheered us on. Such a strong and beautiful soul. He will be missed by all.
Oh Pops!! You were a pop to everyone! Such a beautiful kind soul always helping and sharing your love to your beautiful wife Mary and all of your family including all of your extended bowling family!!! I know you are bowling again and having an amazing time right now in Heaven!! We will see you again soon my friend!! Love you Pops!!!
A great man and a good friend
I am going to miss you Pops. You were so nice to me when I was bowling with you. Bowl high scores now because you are all young again.