Robert Lee Parrish

A Time to Be Born/Sunrise

Robert Parrish was born in Carrboro, North Carolina on November 29, 1934 to the late Robert Parrish and Lillie Atwater-Parrish. Affectionately known as “Jack”, Robert received his education in the Orange County School System, graduating from Lincoln High School (Class of 1954). As a youth, he joined and attended Hickory Grove Missionary Baptist Church.

A Time to Love

On a beautiful winter day, November 27, 1955, Robert eloped with Gwendolyn Snipes, his High School sweetheart. The newlyweds enjoyed their time in their native City, Robert worked at UNC, while Gwendolyn attended Winston-Salem State. In 1958 the couple moved to New York City. It was during this time, a son, Ricky L. Parrish (preceded in death), was welcomed into this union.

A Time to Enjoy Life

Robert was an avid sports fan, he loved football, baseball, softball, and bowling. He was the youngest player to play for the “Chapel Hill Dons”. After 26 years of employment with the New York City Transit Authority, Robert retired and moved to Orlando, Florida. Welcoming himself to a new community, it was very common to see him mentoring teens and young adults. He became a Charter Member at Grace Bible Church where he attended and served faithfully (singing in the Men’s Choir, providing leadership and inspiration at the Men’s Mission). Serving God and His people was his profound passion.

            
                     A Time to Mourn/Sunset

On a warm summer evening, Friday, July 14, 2017, Robert Parrish 82 of Orlando, Florida departed this life and entered into eternal rest. Robert was very generous, he used his time and talents to help family, friends and the community. He was a loving father, brother and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory, a loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Mrs. Gwendolyn Parrish, a brother, Mr. Stanley Parrish (Princess) of Chapel Hills, NC, a sister-in-law, Mrs. Gloria Crockett of Raleigh, NC, a brother-in-law, Mr. Robert Snipes (Esther) Fayetteville, NC and a host of other relatives, nieces, nephews, and friends.

2 Timothy 4:6-8

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, 
which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, 
but unto all them also that love his appearing.