Malinda Kay Parrish

A life defined by love, compassion, and connection - that was the legacy of Malinda Parrish. Born on May 22, 1959, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Peggy and Richard Parrish, Malinda grew up surrounded by family and faith, both of which would guide her throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Peggy Mannino; her stepfather, Benjamin Mannino; her father, Richard Parrish; and her beloved brothers, Michael Parrish and Robb Parrish. She was also preceded in death by Ross, whom she lovingly cared for and cherished as family. Their memories remained a source of strength and tenderness in her heart.
Malinda's love continues through those she leaves behind: her brother, Richard Parrish, and his wife, Lynn; her sister, Karen Stevens, and her husband, Billy; her sisters-in-law, Chandra and Phyllis Parrish; her nieces and nephews; and her great-nieces and great-nephews - each of whom knew her as a source of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.
A graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur, Malinda later found her forever home in Florida. There, her kindness and curiosity led her to many adventures - from her time at the Gulf Breeze Zoo to following her creative calling as a nail technician. With her dear friend Markie Esqueda, she co-founded Elegant Touch Salon, which blossomed into Arriba Salon. Alongside her co-owners Markie Esqueda, Heidi Esposito, and Panayota Whisler, Malinda helped create more than a workplace - she built a family. Arriba became a space filled with laughter, compassion, and care, a reflection of Malinda's own heart.
Malinda's compassion reached far beyond her work. She was a devoted caregiver who gave selflessly to others, and she poured her love into every living being around her - including her two cherished cats and her little chihuahua. She loved the beach, the thrill of the Blue Angels, and cheering passionately for her Pittsburgh Steelers. Everywhere she went, her gentle spirit made people feel seen, valued, and loved.
Her memory lives on through her Arriba Salon family - Markie Esqueda and family, Heidi and Freddy Esposito, Panayota and Joe Whisler, Marc Rodriguez, Natalie Pinter, Candice O'Malley, and Christen Underwood - as well as the many clients and friends whose lives she brightened with her kindness.
We would also like to acknowledge her ex-husband, Derek Smith, with whom she had recently reconnected, as well as extend heartfelt thanks to her dear friends Annette and Wesley for their unwavering friendship and support.
Her niece Michelle, her extended family, and the entire Arriba crew hold all who loved Malinda in their hearts and prayers. May her life remind us that compassion is the truest form of beauty, and that love - freely given - never ends.
May we each carry a piece of Malinda's gentle spirit within us, and may God grant us peace, comfort, and mercy as we continue to honor her love.