Charlie Joe Parrish

Charlie Parrish, a native of San Augustine County, Texas, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication. Born and raised in Brookeland, Charlie graduated from Jasper High School in May of 1954. Shortly after, in June 1954, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. He completed his basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, and trained as an aircraft electrician at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois. Charlie was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City, Louisiana, before receiving an honorable discharge in December 1957. After his military service, Charlie pursued further education at Lamar University as an instrumentation and electrical technician.  He then began a fruitful career, first working at Shell Chemical in Deer Park, Texas for three years. He later joined Goodyear Chemical Plant as an I&E Technician, where he worked diligently for 36 years until his retirement in 1997. An avid outdoorsman, Charlie enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life, particularly in East Texas. His love for the outdoors was only matched by his devotion to his faith and his family. Charlie was a regular attendee at Vidor First Baptist Church and remained a faithful servant of the Lord. Additionally, he was a proud Mason for 68 years. After the second flood from Tropical Storm Imelda, Charlie and his beloved wife, Bettye, relocated to Beaumont, Texas. Charlie often remarked that marrying Bettye Ann Weeks was the best thing that ever happened to him. Their love story spanned 65 wonderful years. Together, they raised three children: Dwayne Parrish (married to Lela) of Beaumont, TX, Daryl Parrish (married to Jean) of Austin, TX, and Dwana Parrish Ricks of Conroe, TX. Charlie was a cherished grandfather to six grandchildren: Trey and Brandon Ricks, Rachel Townsend (married to Matthew), Matthew Parrish (married to Gina), Daniel and Aaron Parrish, and step-granddaughter Bailey Blanchard (married to Michael). He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Alani Ricks, Tobyn, Noah, and Malachi Townsend, and two step-great-grandchildren, Blythe and Tripp Blanchard. Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Travis and Minnie Parrish, and his brother, Arthur Thomas Parrish. He leaves behind many treasured friends, nieces, nephews, and Brittney Ricks, who will all cherish his memory. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Charlie can be made to the Weeks Chapel Cemetery Fund, c/o Marjorie Morton, 315 CR 234, Jasper, TX 75951. Charlie's life was a testament to hard work, faith, and the deep love he had for his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home of Vidor. Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 28th, 2024, from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM At First Baptist Church of Vidor. Funeral services will start 10:00 AM Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Vidor with Pastor Terry Wright officiating. Interment will follow at Weeks Chapel Cemetery 5420 CR 1067 Wiergate, TX 75977.