Bob Parrish

Robert Flournoy "Bob" Parrish, 87, of Hilliard, Florida went home to be with his Lord and Savior November 5, 2026.  He was born December 30, 1938 in Wheeler County, Georgia to the late Herman Franklin and Mamie Lee Maddox Parrish.  He graduated from Irwin County High School in Ocilla, Georgia in 1956.  He married the love of his life, Velma Joyce Hall on August 20, 1961.  He proudly served in the US Army Enlisted Reserves.  In 1963, he began his career with Southern Railway in Jacksonville, Florida, which later became Norfolk Southern.  He had tours of duty in Jacksonville, Florida, Chesapeake, Virginia and Cincinnati, Ohio before retiring as sergeant in the Norfolk Southern Police Department with 33 years of service.  After retirement, he traveled in his motorhome, enjoying the beauty of God's creation for several years before settling in Hilliard, Florida in 1998.  He was a former Deacon at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Chesapeake, Virginia and Trustee and Deacon Emeritus at the First Baptist Church of Boulougne.

Robert was knowledgeable about many subjects and could talk to anyone about anything.  He was a Jack of all trades and could build or repair almost anything.  Gardening was a hobby he loved so that he could share the fruits of his labor.  He loved to sing and listen to souther gospel and country music.  His humor would brighten a room, even on his worst days.  His life, character and faith touched many lives across the country with his works and travel.  He was deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew him.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter:  Haley Marie Sebastian; 2-sisters and brothers-in-law:  Bessie Jo & Billy Funderburke and Claudette & George Bishop.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years:  Velma Hall Parrish; daughter & son-in-law:  Teresa & Jason Sebastian; grandchildren:  Jeremy, Chelsea, Devin, and Justin (Rachel) Sebastian; 6-great grandchildren; 2-nieces:  Kaye Bishop Nipper and Joy Funderburke.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at the First Baptist Church of Boulougne from 5-7 PM.  Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 10:30 AM at the First Baptist Church of Boulougne with Pastor Paul Lucas officiating.  Burial will take place Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 3:30 PM at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Tifton, Georgia.

Condolences may be expressed by signing the guest registry at www.shepardrobersonfh.com.  Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home, Folkston, Georgia is honored to serve the Parrish Family.