James Carl Parrish

James Carl Parrish, 90, of Chicopee, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, at Holyoke Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 14, 1935, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, James was the son of the late Date and Lovie (Stroud) Parrish. He was raised and educated in Chapel Hill, NC., before moving to Springfield, Massachusetts, where he built his life - alongside his wife, Mary Alice, raised their family, and operated his own business, Springfield Janitorial Services.

James was a man of deep faith and unwavering devotion to his family. He was known for his quiet strength, generous heart, and love for fellowship. An avid football fan, he especially loved cheering on the Dallas Cowboys. But above all else, his greatest joy came from spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. James was predeceased by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary Alice Parrish, who passed away just six weeks prior. He was also predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Glenn Parrish, Alvis Parrish, and Joseph Parrish; and his sister, Louise Parrish.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in his three devoted children: James Parrish and his wife Marquita of Cary, NC; Nathaniel Parrish and his wife Barbara Nurse Parrish of Holyoke; and Micheal Parrish of West Springfield. He also leaves 11 cherished grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. James is also survived by his two brothers, Melvin Parrish and Rev. David O. Parrish, both of Chapel Hill, NC, and his eight loving sisters:, Geneva Morrow of Cleveland, OH; Frances Oluwo of Greensboro, NC; Elizabeth Ellison of Haw River, NC; Christine Harris of Hillsborough, NC; Jennie Foushee of Chapel Hill, NC; Coline Massey of Monroe, NC; Barbara Parrish of Chesterfield, VA; Shelby White and her husband Leonard of Chapel Hill, NC; and Christine Harris of Hillsborough, NC.

Family and friends are invited to gather and remember James on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at The Whole Truth Church of God in Christ, 8 Norfolk Street, Springfield, MA, followed by a service at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery on Bay Street in Springfield. Arrangements are entrusted to Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield, MA. James Carl Parrish will be remembered for his faith, his dedication to family, and a life well lived. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.