Omar Jones Parish Jr., 92

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Omar Jones Parish, Jr., 92, on February 17, 2025, at his home in Madisonville, KY, surrounded by family.

He was born on July 18, 1932, in Hanson, KY, to the late Clyda Igleheart Parish and Omar Parish, Sr. A union built on love, faith, and dedication, Omar was married to his loving wife, Barbara, for seventy-two years. Together, they raised three children, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, including five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. A man of faith and commitment, Omar became a member of First Baptist Church in 1956, where he faithfully served as deacon and Chairman of the deacons, and several church committees. He was also part of the church choir for forty years. His devotion to his church and community was an integral part of his life.

Stationed in Puerto Rico, Omar served his country proudly in the United States Air Force. His time in the service instilled in him a deep sense of duty, which he carried into all aspects of his life. Omar retired from Peabody River Queen Coal Mines after working there for thirty-five years. A man of many talents, Omar was a State Representative, where he worked diligently to serve his community. In addition, he owned and operated Parish Used Cars and Inland Marine Boat Sales. His love for classic cars led him to become a member of the Christian Classic Cruisers Car Club for over twenty-five years, where he shared his passion with others.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Melton Parish of Madisonville; children, Vicki (Terry) Lamb, Valerie Cantrell, and Dawn Fox; grandchildren, Neil (Tara) Kolodey, Audrea (Tom) Sisk, Whitney (Charlie) Fuller, Andrew (Leigh Ann) Fox, and Emily (Todd) Bello; great-grandchildren, Nathan (Maddie) Tapp, Brooklyn (Heath) Jones, Bradley Sisk, Jack Sisk, Cameron Fuller, Trevor Fox, Lucas Fox, and Lucy Fox; great-great-grandchildren, Leland and Jax Tapp, and Mason Jones; sister, Pat (Bill) Payne; as well as many other extended family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2025, in the chapel of Harris Funeral Home with his grandson, Bro. Neil Kolodey, officiating. Burial will be held at East Lawn Cemetery in Hanson, KY.

Visitation will be from 12 p.m. until the funeral hour on Sunday at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Andrew Fox, Charlie Fuller, Bradley Sisk, Jack Sisk, Andy Fox, and Terry Lamb.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Omar’s memory to First Baptist Church, 246 North Main Street, Madisonville, KY 42431.

Omar’s life was a testament to faith, family, and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.harrisfuneralinc.com