Jerry Allan Parrish

Jerry Allan Parrish Jerry Allan Parrish of Austin, TX, was born on May 13, 1942. He passed away on April 28, 2013 at the age of 70. Jerry was born in Kemp, TX, and spent his early years in Kaufman, TX. In 1960, he graduated from Kaufman High School. A football scholarship brought him to Austin College in Sherman, TX, and he completed his undergraduate work at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, TX. In 1964, Jerry began his study of medicine at the University of Texas in Galveston where he also met and married Alice Ruth Riely, a student of nursing. Both moved to San Antonio where Jerry enlisted in the Air Force in order to complete his medical training and to serve his country. He interned at Wilford Hall Hospital in San Antonio, worked as a flight surgeon at Williams Air Force Base near Phoenix, AZ, and returned to Wilford Hall for his residency in ophthalmology. He was awarded the rank of Major. Preferring the quiet life of smaller towns to the bustle of larger cities, Jerry decided to practice ophthalmology in Tyler. There, he formed his own practice and later co-founded the Eye Care Associates of East Texas. After thirty years of caring for people, Jerry left Tyler in 2003 and retired to Austin, TX. He and Alice spent time enjoying the creativity, diversity, food and music of Alice's hometown. Jerry had a tireless work ethic yet he also made time for other interests, which included football, classic country music, art, literature and history, especially Native American and Texas history. Jerry loved stories about the human condition, and he connected to those who, through diligence, overcame adversity. He believed that dedication and honesty were the secrets of a joyful life. Profoundly generous, he proudly donated to Brenham State School, Equality Texas and the Tyler Museum of Art among others. More often, he gave back to the community without recognition, helping with quiet grace individuals and families. Jerry adored his family. He is survived by his loving wife Alice; his daughter, Amy Parrish; his sons, Graydon and Maxwell, Maxwell's partner Courtney Kelley; his grandson, Clyde Parrish-Kelley; his three brothers, Robert, Doyle and John; and his sister, Patricia Johnson. His brother William Parrish, his mother Robbie and his father Homer preceded Jerry in death. The family wishes to thank Jerry's friends and family as well as Dr. Jaron Winston, the staff and nurses of Barton Hills Assisted Living, the staff and nurses of Arden Courts and Odyssey Hospice of Austin. A celebration of his life will be held on May 18th at 1:00 pm at the family's home. His remains will be interred at Lone Oak Cemetery in Kemp, TX, the following day. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Volunteer Services Council for Brenham State School, 4001 Hwy 36 South, Brenham, Tx, 77833-9610 or to your local Alzheimer's Association. Memorials and guestbook online at www.wcfish.com