Robert Gene Parish "Coach"

Robert Gene Parish “Coach,” age 72, of Crestview, passed away peacefully the morning of August 14, 2015, at his home. Gene was born in Galveston, Texas, on May 1, 1943, and moved to Headland, Alabama, where he graduated from Headland High School. After graduation he attended Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida, from 1961 to 1965 on a football scholarship receiving his Bachelor of Science degree. He later received his Master of Business Education from Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, and a Master of Education, Educational Leadership from The University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida. Gene had over 40 years in the educational system with more than 30 years in the Okaloosa County School System. His first job after college was as a teacher/coach at Niceville High School in Niceville, Florida. He later taught and coached football and track at Baker School in Baker, Florida; Bay High School in Panama City, Florida; Jonesboro High School, Jonesboro, Georgia; Sprayberry High School in Marietta, Georgia, returning to Baker School in Baker, Florida, ending his educational career as an Assistant Principal at Crestview High School in Crestview, Florida, upon retirement in 2007. He continued as a substitute teacher and coached golf for the next five years. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mary Barbaree Parish, and brother-in-law, Tommy Chancellor. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sheila Clark Parish; his son, Brandon Gene Parish; step-son, Joseph Michael Williams (Theresa); daughter, Andrea Shaune Parish Jockers (Brian); sisters, Betty Chancellor and Ann Parish; grandchildren, Charles (Chase) Robert Parish, Morgan Kay Martin Taylor, Sean Michael Stewart, Heath Erin Stewart, Michael Seth Williams, Casey Lynn Williams Parham (Mitchell) and Logan Jean Williams; and great granddaughters, Rylieanne Grace Taylor and Lillyanne Faith Taylor. Gene also leaves behind his beloved pet dog, “Nico”, who was totally attached to him. In keeping with Gene's wishes and his request, his body is being cremated A celebration of Gene's life will take place on Saturday, August 29, 2015, from five until nine in the evening at Foxwood Country Club located at 4927 Antioch Road, Crestview, Florida. Gene will be laughing, smiling and joking with all his family, friends, former students and teachers, but especially all of the former athletes, players and coaches he was associated with during his teaching and coaching career. He loved life to the fullest. For those wishing to honor Gene's memory, flowers will be welcomed; however, your contribution to the American Heart Association, St. Jude Children's Hospital or PAWS would be greatly appreciated in lieu of. Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

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