James Kenneth Parris

James Kenneth Parris, age 63, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2021 (after battling cancer). Born November 3, 1957 in Seattle, Washington and raised in Michigan, he was the oldest of four children, whom he always stood up for regardless of the situation. Though a member of the Cub Scouts when he was younger, he was actually a rebel at heart with a great sense of humor. This was exhibited by the countless times he got in trouble watching and re-enacting scenes from the Three Stooges with his younger brother Michael, a tradition he carried on with his children.

After graduating from Hartland HS in 1976, Jim took a cross-country motorcycle trip with his mentor and life-long best friend Harry Sayers. He then moved to Alabama for a short time before settling in Texas in 1977.

Jim started his career in his father’s footsteps by becoming a professional Masonry Contractor and Business Owner. His last 20+ years were spent mastering custom cabinetry. With an unquestionable eye for detail and desire for perfection, Jim earned a reputation as one of the best cabinet makers in the area and was highly respected by his peers.

Be it simple conversation or complete dedication to family, friends or career, you knew Jim was genuine to the core. His personality naturally attracted others, making it hard not to join in on his playful energy and quick wit.

He gave unselfishly and made people feel valued, significant and loved. Jim’s stature, style and convictions conveyed enduring loyalty and strength. It is through this tremendous strength that he gave comfort and reassurance to family and friends while going through his own life’s battle with cancer. This type of courage goes beyond words, positives or rewards. He is a true hero.

Jim was a devoted father and partner and a protector of all those around him. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor, big heart, honesty and integrity. He was always there for an ear to bend, shoulder to cry on or a good home cooked meal.

For relaxation, Jim would spend hours riding his motorcycle through the scenic back roads with his friends or sitting on a dock by a pond or lake fishing. He shared his respect and appreciation for firearms through countless hours target shooting with family and friends. And for fun, Jim received the greatest pleasure in purchasing fireworks for the kids so he could watch the smiles and looks of amazement when they were set off. He also had a passion for numismatics that he shared with everyone.

Jim was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bennett and Mae Parris and James and Gwendolyn Raley. He is survived by his life partner and soul mate, Brenda Grasha; children, James Anthony (Tony), Nicholas, Trinity, and Shane; grandson, Landon; parents, Paul and Louise Parris; siblings, Michael, Karen and Danny; and countless extended family and friends who loved and respected him.

A “Celebration of Life” for Jim will take place on July 24th in Conroe, TX. Please contact family for more information.

For those desiring, contributions may be made in Jim’s name to DAV – Disabled Americans Veterans ( https://www.dav.org/ ) or the American Cancer Society ( https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate.html ).











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