R.C. "Buck" Parish

R. C. "Buck" Parish, age 92, of Saginaw, Arkansas, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

Buck was born on May 8, 1933, to Arthur and Florence Sandage Parish in Saginaw. He lived a life marked by devotion, hard work, and enduring love. He was the beloved husband of Dorothy Parish for 43 years. Together they built a strong foundation of values and memories that continue through their children and grandchildren.

He was a devoted father to Randy Parish (Susan), Gary Parish (Angie), and Jerry Parish (Leanne), all of Midway, and a proud "Pa Buck" to seven grandchildren: Ryan Parish (Stacey), Andrea Tugwell (Dusty), Haley Tugwell (Jason), Justin Norman, Caleb Parish (Katie), Jill Long (Justin), and Jodi Norman. He was also blessed with thirteen great-grandchildren: Landry, Carter, Kenley, Jack, Leighton, Colter, Claire, Colbie, Bentley, Noelle, Josie, and AnnaLea Grace (arriving soon), and one great-great-grandchild, Scottie Jo, arriving in June.

He is survived by three loving siblings: Ola Faye Lane, Betty Jo Hughes, and Hubert Parish, as well as many nieces and nephews.

On October 26, 2002, Buck married Edna Lemons, and they shared 15 years of marriage. Through this union, Buck was blessed with four bonus children: Mary Penny (Fred) of Malvern, Sandy Bankson (Warren) of Little Rock, Paul Lemons (Marietta) of Morrilton, and the late Jimmy Lemons. He also gained nine bonus grandchildren-Seth, Hannah, Sheryl, Jim, Melissa, Natalie, Rachel, MaryBeth, and Aaron-along with twenty bonus great-grandchildren and six bonus great-great-grandchildren.

Buck was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Dorothy Parish and Edna Lemons Parish; and six siblings.

Hard work was Buck's way of life. He spent 15 years at Sturgis Flooring Mill, followed by 30 years as a furnace operator at an aluminum foundry. In retirement, he enjoyed tending to his cows, spending summers in the hay field and garden, and working alongside his good friend, Doyle Cook, at the sawmill.

After giving his life to the Lord at age 87, he became a devoted member of Saginaw Missionary Baptist Church. Buck was a founder of the Delisle Creek Hunting Club and thoroughly enjoyed deer hunting. He spent countless hours keeping his wood pile stocked by cutting wood year-round. Most of all, he cherished time spent in his porch swing surrounded by his family and friends.

The family extends special thanks to the Gentiva nurses who lovingly cared for Buck: Katie, Cassie, Shirley, Tristan, and Brittany.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saginaw Missionary Baptist Church Youth Group (817 Cook Rd. Donaldson, AR 71941).

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7, from 6pm until 8pm at Regency Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be on Thursday, January 8th at 10:00am at Neighbors Cemetery with Bro. Alan Cansler and Bro. Fred Etheridge officiating.

Pallbearers are Ryan Parish, Caleb Parish, Dusty Tugwell, Jason Tugwell, Justin Long, Jack Tugwell and Leighton Tugwell. Honorary Pallbearers include his nephews, Jerry Selph, Jimmy Cash and Seth Penny.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.