Mark D. Parrish

Deacon Mark Douglas Parrish, a devoted servant, beloved father, and pillar of the Trenton community, was born on September 8, 1955, in Trenton, NJ, to the late James Duncan and Gladys (nee Gibson) Parrish.
In September 1984, Mark married the love of his life, the late Deborah Lee (Coleman) Parrish. Their union was blessed with (surviving) children, Mark Douglas, Marci Renee, Jarred Greatheart (Anushi), and a beloved grandson, Marshal Lee, who brought him great joy.
A proud Trenton Central High School graduate, Class of 1974, Mark remained connected to his classmates and faithfully attended reunions. He dedicated 26 years of honorable service as a Correction Officer with the New Jersey State Prison. Even in retirement, Mark's heart for mentorship and service continued - he worked with PEI Kids, taught in the CJOOS and MAV programs, served as a driver for Hughes Funeral Home, and provided security for Trenton Community Charter School and Dunn Middle School in Trenton, NJ.
Mark's spiritual journey began early in life. He was baptized at Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. E.A. Davis, where he attended Sunday School and sang in the Davis and Hayes Choir. Later, he joined Galilee Baptist Church under the guidance of Rev. John H. Harris, where he was ordained as a Deacon in 2000. Deacon Mark loved the Lord and faithfully served in numerous roles, including Head of Church Security, Director of the Vanpool Ministry, Vice Chair of the Deacon Board, Founder of the Church Food Pantry, and Deacon of the Deaconesses.
He was also a senior member and financial secretary to the Fathers and Men United for a Better Trenton. A familiar and cherished presence at the monthly NJ Corrections Breakfasts, Mark also shared lasting bonds through the Tyrell Avenue and Friends circle. A man of many talents, Mark found joy in fishing and cooking, particularly when hosting his legendary wild game Super Bowl and fight night parties during the 1990s. He loved to reminisce about his childhood, often sharing vivid, humorous, and affectionate stories about his aunts and uncles. One of his greatest daily joys was Face Timing with his grandson, Marshal, always offering the same warmth and care he showed to everyone in his life.
In addition to parents and wife, he is predeceased by his sister, Cheryl Robinson. He is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Patricia G. Parrish, Terri L. Nance (William), and Elder James D. Parrish (Evelyn); his aunts: Geraldine Parrish, Roberta Johnson, Tetretha Campbell, and Ruth Gibson; a host of extended family and friends.
Surviving him are his children: AJ Powell, Bryant Powell (Laticia), Sterling Powell, Aignee Dixon, and Taylor Asa (Dustin), as well as twelve cherished grandchildren. His great-nephew and godson, Emaru Barber, also survives him. Deacon Mark D. Parrish's life was one of dedication, generosity, and deep faith. He served his family, church, and community with integrity and compassion. His legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Funeral service will be 11am Friday, May16, 2025 at Galilee Baptist Church, 440 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Trenton, NJ 08618. Calling hours will be 9am until the time of service. Interment will be at Ewing Church Cemetery, Ewing, NJ.
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