The son of the late James Hall and Ruth Whitley Parish, e was born in the Panama Canal Zone. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving in World War II, the Korean War and the Cuban Quarantine. He later joined his father and brother in business at Wendell Furniture, where he worked for over 40 years.

He was an active member of Wendell Christian Church where he served as an elder and trustee among other positions.

Survivors include his wife, Martha Greene Parish; son, James Riley Parish and wife Lynda of Fayetteville; daughter, Marty P. Greer and husband Walter of Wendell; brother William Parish and wife Aileen of Wendell; three granddaughters; and one great-grandchild.

Funeral services were held Thursday at Wendell Christian Church.

Interment followed at Greenmount Cemetery in Wendell.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Living Endowment Fund at Wendell Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, 427 Mattox Street, Wendell, NC 27591.

Strickland Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.