Willard Calvin Parrish

Willard "Will" Calvin Parrish, 76, of Pensacola, FL, passed away peacefully on April 10,2025, surrounded by his loving family. Will was born November 11, 1948 in Coats, NC, to Thurmond and Ruby Parrish. Will grew up in Smithfield, NC.
At the age of 18, Will enlisted in the Air Force. Will was a proud Veteran, serving with honor in the Air Force during the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Shield/Storm. During his distinguished 26-year career in the Air Force, Will received the Meritorious service Metal with 4 Oakleaf Clusters; Air Force Commendation Metal; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Metal; Defense Service Metal with 1 Bronze Star; Vietnam Service Metal with 2 Oakleaf Clusters; Air Force Good Conduct Metal with 7 Oakleaf Clusters. Will valued this service highly and attained the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. After his retirement from the Air Force, Will continued to serve his country as a civilian working for the Department of Defense.
Will's loved ones will remember his quick wit, sense of humor, strong work ethic, and unwavering patriotism.
Will leaves behind his wife, Clara; daughter, Angela; and granddaughter, Naomi.
A memorial service honoring the life of Willard Calvin Parrish will be held graveside at Barrancas National Cemetery at 1400, on Thursday, April 17, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.