Dr. J.Gilbert Parrish Sr. (1-20-19)

Dr. J. Gilbert Parrish Sr., of Waterloo, Alabama, was called to heaven on Sunday, Jan. 20, at the age of 83 on his way home from Bruton Branch Baptist Church.
He is survived by his high school sweetheart of 65 years, Jannis Parrish; daughter Kathie (Bobby) Baldridge of Lakeland, Tennessee; daughter Marsha (Bart) Hove of Longboat Key, Florida; son Gil Parrish Jr. (Robin) of Savannah; son David Randall (Lynn) Parrish of Collierville, Tennessee; son Dr. Mike (Becky) Parrish of Eads, Tennessee; brother Ted (Carolyn) Parrish of Memphis; sister Lois Ann (Jim) Whittington of Bartlett.
“Doc” counted among his greatest blessings his 26 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren, and he took time to communicate and invest in them all. He was larger than life to those who loved him, and many happy moments were spent recounting Doc’s adventures in piloting, boating, sports and the great outdoors he enjoyed so much. As one grandson said, “He taught us how to live.”
Born in Memphis on July 19, 1935, Dr. Parrish had been an all-city athlete of Messick High School, going on to graduate from Memphis State University and the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. He and his wife were devoted members of Broadmoor Baptist Church for 50 years. Dr. Parrish practiced dentistry in the Raleigh area of Memphis from 1962-1994 before retiring to Waterloo, Alabama.
Dr. Parrish was preceded in death by his parents, John A. and Lois T. Parrish of Memphis; daughter Debbie (Lee) Adcox; and grandchildren, Stephanie Boyd and John Gilbert Parrish III.
Doc was a respected mentor, friend, and example of consistent Christian leadership to anyone who met him. He demonstrated his love through service and encouragement to others. Doc’s favorite scripture from 3 John 1:4: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Waypoint Baptist Church, 5586 Stage Road, Bartlett, Tenn. 38134.
Graveside service was Thursday, Jan. 24, 12:30 p.m., Richardson Cemetery, Waterloo, Alabama. Memorial service was Friday, Jan. 25, 2 p.m., Crossroads Baptist Church, Cordova, Tenn.