James H. Parish Sr. passed away from this life peacefully at home on July 4, 2026, at the age of 83, and entered the presence of his Savior. He was born on August 2, 1942, in Laurel, MS, to Lester and Garnett Parish. He lived a full life and will be remembered for his love for the Lord and how he faithfully served as long as he was able.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Garnett Parish, and three brothers, Jerry “Buddy” Parish, Thomas “Tom” Parish, and William “Bill” Parish. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Constance J. Parish; three children, James Parish Jr. (Shari), Lester Parish (Chelsey), and Anna Grafton; eight grandchildren, Nicole Patrick (Darrell), Donavan Parish, Denton Parish (Lindsay), Matthew Parish, Megan Pitts (Cole), Lindsey Sylvester (Gabe), Daniel Parish, and .Harper Parish; seventeen great-grandchildren; four siblings, Donna Mitchum, Bobbie Craft, Lester Allen ”Al” Parish (Patsy), and Wanda Faye Sumrall; and a host of other family and friends whom he loved deeply, including Ron Grafton and Lesa Harrison.

Being “Papaw” was one of his greatest delights! He loved his family immensely and made sure to tell them regularly. He was a wonderful husband and father, and a veteran who loved his country. However, the greatest love of his life was Jesus Christ. He was an active member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church for 53 years, where he poured his heart into teaching Sunday School classes and prison evangelism with Vision Ministries. His desire was to be a faithful servant and to see all his friends and family come to know the Lord. His life was a testimony to everyone he knew. He will be missed deeply by those who love him.

Colonial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. There will be a graveside service for family, and burial will take place at Hickory Grove Cemetery on Tuesday July 7th 2026, at 10:00AM in Laurel, MS. Bro. Roy Crouch will officiate. Pallbearers will be: Cole Pitts, Gabe Sylvester, Darrell Patrick, Tristan Patrick, Logan Patrick, Denton Parish, Matthew Parish and Ron Grafton. The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to ComfortCare Hospice team for their compassionate care and support. The Lord used them to bless our family during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to BEAMS Bible Ministry in his memory.

BEAMS Bible Ministry

P.O. Box 10200

Gulfport, MS 39505

Phone: 228-832-1096

Online donations can be made at https://beamsbibles.com