Gerald Parish

On the morning of May 31, 2015, Gerald Parish passed from this life after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by those that loved him dearly. Gerald was born May 21, 1946 in Laurel, MS and lived his entire life in the Laurel and Jones county area. He attended Jones Junior College and the University of Southern Mississippi before embarking on a career in the auto salvage industry for 45 years. He was a co-owner and owner during his tenure at Rogers Auto Parts. Gerald also served as a Mississippi Auto Salvage Association board member for 8 years. On December 21, 1968, he married Diane Rogers. They were happily married for 46 years. The couple has 3 children and 7 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, William Floyd Parish and Maxine Brown Parish; his brother, Phil Allen Parish; and his brother-in-law, Bruce Rogers. Gerald is survived by his wife Diane Rogers Parish; son Jason, his wife Sherrie, their children, Will, Sara Kate, and Emme of Hattiesburg, MS; son Eric, his wife Laura, their children Eva and Robert of Hattiesburg, MS; son Kyle, his wife Kathy, their children Cade and Mary of Collierville, TN. He is survived by brother-and-sisters-in-law, June Parish, Tommy and Brenda Rogers, and Mary Ann Rogers as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Gerald was a shining example of patience and compassion. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Laurel where he served as a deacon for many years. Gerald was a devoted husband, dedicated father, avid outdoorsman and accomplished golfer. One of his most cherished accomplishments was passing down his love for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing to his sons and grandsons. Gerald taught them what it means to be a real man. He diligently pursued his personal and professional goals while maintaining a unique humbleness. Gerald was dearly loved by those that knew him, and he always provided a helping hand to those in need. The funeral will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2015 at First Baptist Church of Laurel with burial to follow at Hickory Grove Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. and continue until the time of service. Dr. Randy Turner will officiate. Pallbearers will be Johnny Robison, Rick Sumrall, Tony Thaxton, Phillips Weaver, William Whittman, Dick Yoder. Honorary pallbearers are members of Tom Blake’s Sunday school class. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church or a charity of your choice. Memory Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. To view and sign the family guestbook, visit www.memorychapellaurel.com.

Gerald Parish

May 21, 1946 - May 31, 2015