William Edward (Eddy) Parrish, 80, of Laurel, was born October 14, 1941, in New Orleans, LA. He passed away Saturday, February 19, 2022, surrounded by his family at Guardian Angels Assisted Living in Laurel, MS.

He attended Laurel High School and Shady Grove High School, where he was a standout football player. He then joined the Navy and was honorably discharged. He was very skilled at many things, including working as an appliance repairman, a welder, and later an electrician for the greater part of his life. He loved all things outdoors. He loved hunting and riding his motorcycle with his son, and bass fishing with his brother. He took great pride in teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish, hunt and play sports. He really enjoyed spending time with his sisters, children and all family members.

One of his proudest accomplishments was starting girl's softball in Jones County. When his 8-year old daughter came home announcing she wanted to play baseball like her brother, he figured out a way to let her play… just not regular baseball.  He and his wife contacted some fellow Jaycees, figured out they could get the field one night per week and went to work. The first year enough little girls showed up for 3 teams… the rest as they say, is history.

Eddy never met a stranger and had a smile and sparkle in his eye for everyone he met. He was the first one to call for so many to "fix anything from a dishwasher to a broken heart". His warm demeaner, quick wit and love for others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Perry Edward Parrish; mother, Gladys Tew Parrish;  sister, Gwen Poppell.

Survivors include his son, Barry Parrish (Barbara) of Laurel, MS; daughters, Marlana Hedgepeth (Grant) of Ellisville, MS and Chanda Aaron (Justin) of Stringer, MS; a special friend, Opal Lott, brother, Ronnie Parrish;  sisters, Joyce Smith, Brenda Jones and Susan Cave;  grandsons, Austin Perkins, Lane Aaron and Chance Aaron;  granddaughters, Dr. Hope Perkins and Christa Walters;  great grandson, Dylan Bradley;  great granddaughters, Kaylee Wood, Karlee Wood and Kylee Wood and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Freedom Baptist Church in 971 Freedom Rd. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 3:00 PM at Freedom Baptist Church in Laurel, MS. Bro. David Fedele will officiate. Ellisville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 601-477-3797

An online guestbook may be signed at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com