Cory Allen Parish

Cory Allen Parish, 51, of Benton, suddenly left his earthly vessel on the evening of April 7, 2021.  Cory was a handyman by trade who took great pride in all the projects he completed.  Cory served for a short time in the United States Navy after leaving Polk County High School, Class of 1987.  After returning from service, he lived for a few years in Alabama and a short time in Florida before returning home to Tennessee.

Cory always had a mischievous twinkle in his eye and his charm, wit and warm smile caused people to naturally gravitate towards him.  He did not know a stranger and could carry a conversation with anyone in a matter of minutes.  He never hesitated to jump in with both feet when it came to helping others and went above and beyond when he knew he did not have to.  His only reasoning is that he hoped to receive the same back in return.  He enjoyed listening to music and found ways to listen to what he loved daily as he tinkered outside on all the things he loved to work on.  He enjoyed leisurely rides on his motorcycle and occasionally participated in charity poker runs.  He took joy in helping with his family’s tree farm and spending Christmases in Alabama with his “Alabama Gang” and his Aunt Mary Pruitt’s homemade banana pudding.  No one could make it like his Aunt Mary did.  He loved his animal family and took great care to provide for his doggy family.  He was truly a one-of-a kind whirlwind force that demanded a piece of your heart.

Cory was preceded in death by his Grandparents, T. Coy and Susie Parish of Reliance, TN and Margaret and Pete Benavides of Attalla, AL.  His uncle Larry Pruitt of Rainbow City, AL and cousin, Brandon Benavides of Alabama.

Cory left behind to carry and honor his memory, his beloved parents, Thurman and Patricia Parish of Benton, TN; sister, Jeannie (Emanuel) Burrell of Cleveland, TN; nephews, Jack Burton, Josh Burrell and Justin Burrell all of Cleveland, TN; daughter and granddaughter, Harlee and Scarlett Parish of Hokes Bluff, AL; Aunt Barb Parish of Reliance, TN; Aunt Mary Brooks of Lancaster, PA; Uncle John Benavides, Aunt Mary Pruitt, Aunt Paula Marsh and Aunt Linda (Rick) Sullivan all of Alabama; Cory’s life partner of 11 ½  years, Jill Wilbanks Roberts and her two children, Shane and Mackenzie Roberts of Benton, TN; best friend Scott Passmore of Chattanooga, TN who he felt was his best friend to the end.  He leaves behind so many friends and family that he spoke to daily and often that are just too many to mention but be certain that he held all in his heart as he hoped to have taken a piece of each person’s heart he knew and loved.

A Celebration of Life service will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 12, 2021 in the chapel of Higgins Funeral Home with Pastor Joe Hatcher officiating.  His family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, prior to the service at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.