Creed Ryan Parrish

Creed Ryan Parrish was welcomed into this world on September 11, 2003, by his proud and adoring parents, Kevin and Andrea. He was born and raised in Abilene, Texas, and often commented as to just how much he loved his hometown.

This handsome, vivacious, red-headed young man had a zest for life, people, and he never met a stranger! From the time he could talk, Creed was an exciting and animated storyteller… so much so that, surprisingly, his hilarious video rendition of the Biblical tale of the battle between David and Goliath landed him a featured spot on Jeff Foxworthy’s hit TV game show, “The American Bible Challenge” – at age FOUR! And he was only just beginning to flex his many talents!

While attending Thomas Elementary School, Creed began singing in the choir and continued honing his musical skills through both Craig Middle School and then, finally, at Abilene High School, where he sang bass… as a freshman!

Like his father, Creed possessed a wicked sense of humor, a natural ability to mimic and act, they shared a deep sense of patriotism and fascination with American history. It was a dream come true when he got to go to Washington, D.C. and visit our Nation’s Capital during spring break of 2018! One of the highlights of the trip was when he got to meet Congressman Jodey Arrington and, after correctly answering one of the questions the Congressman had posed to the group, the impressed Congressman handed Creed his personal lapel pin!

Like his mother, Creed’s sweetness drew friends to him like moths to a flame. He was a genuinely GOOD guy, everybody’s friend and was deeply loved by many. This gentle giant could instantly put folks at ease with his kindness, heartfelt smile, and big, strong, warm bear hugs. He was thoughtful, kind, quick with a compliment, and had a huge, thankful heart.

On the other hand… he could also turn right around and practically make anyone laugh with his corny jokes, silly riddles and clever pranks! He thrived on creating puns, memes, and teasing friends (and his sister)! He had a fast wit and natural inquisitiveness set him apart from some his own age because, though he had an over-developed funny bone, he was also quite serious and devoted to his academic studies, as well. In fact, his joy for reading resulted in being awarded the “Million Word Reader Award” multiple times – which is a considerable accomplishment! He was highly intelligent, always conscientious about his studies, and often received straight A-s, which nearly broke his parents’ wallets when they foolishly challenged him by offering to pay him for every A! Additionally, Creed also twice earned certificates from the prestigious “President’s Education Awards Program’s Outstanding Academic Excellence”.

As he matured, Creed began to attend faith-based summer camps like White River Youth Camp, and the “Impulse” Leadership Camp at Abilene Christian University… which led to his increased interested in learning more about God’s Word, as well as taking steps to assure his salvation. It gives his family great comfort in knowing that he accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior in 2016, therefore they can rest assured that he is now in the presence of God.

The shock of the sudden and premature loss of this precious young man on Friday, November 16th, 2018, has left an aching void not only in the lives of his classmates and teachers, but especially in the broken hearts of his family. He is lovingly survived by his parents, his sweet sister, Chloe; grandparents, Percy and Ruth Parrish of Lubbock, TX; grandfather, Charles Rice and wife, Janis, of Lakeport, CA; grandmother, Judith Wirtjes, of Ft. Worth, TX; uncles: Judge Elect Curtis Parrish and wife, Brenda, of Lubbock, TX; Russell Wirtjes of Ft. Worth, TX; Eric Nielsen of Coeur d’Alene, ID; and aunt, Missy Stark, and husband, Nathan, of Troop, TX… as well as many, many mournful cousins from various parts around the country.

A memorial service honoring Creed’s life will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday November 24th, 2018 in the auditorium at Highland Church of Christ, 425 Highland Avenue. A visitation with the family will be held Monday November 19th, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut St.  A private family graveside will be held on Tuesday.

Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com.