Joseph Ross Parris

Joseph Ross Parris (Jay), age 67, of Gowensville, South Carolina, passed away on May 10, 2026. Born on May 30, 1958 he was a son of the late Bobby-Joe Parris and Susan Rebecca (Becky) Ross Parris.

Jay graduated from Chesnee High School in 1976 and was a vital member of the football team as an all-star punter. Working for Westinghouse the majority of his career, he traveled all over the world, touching lives wherever he went.

Jay's love of motorcycles was second to none. His riding buddies could count on him to show up with a spotless bike and a sharp wit. Always the go-to-guy if you needed a hand with your bike, no matter how involved it might be. Whether they biked with him for 55 years or as few as 2, all will say he was one of their dearest friends.

Jay was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Gowensville and the community of Gowensville. He loved his church and was loved by his church family.

An anchor to the community, a loyal friend and always the first to be called for help, Jay took great pride in living a life of service, prioritizing everybody before himself, and was generous with his time and talents. He served on the safety team and the kitchen committee, always welcoming with a joke and a smile. He loved to show the love of Christ to the next generation by serving in Vacation Bible School. Jay served his church as a dedicated prayer warrior - if he said he would pray for you, you could be confident that he would keep his word. His loyalty and willingness to serve in any capacity was always on full display.

Jay is survived by his mother, Susan Parris, his brother, Timothy Parris, his son, Stephen Parris, his daughter Rachel Parris (her husband Andrew Redman), his grandson Sullivan Redman whom he cherished deeply, and his cat Nutmeg.

A visitation will be held at the Gowensville Community Center on May 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Gowensville Community Center in Jay's Honor.

Donations can be mailed to:

Greater Gowensville Association in care of Gowensville Community Center

625 Laurens Rd Landrum SC 29356