Duke Gregory Parrish, age 55, passed away on October 31, 2024, in Brevard, North Carolina. Born on January 13, 1969, Duke was a charismatic and respected figure in his community, embodying the rugged individualism of his favorite actor, John Wayne, whose ethos he lived by. One of his favorite quotes by John Wayne was “I have tried to live my life so that my family would love me and my friends respect me. The others can do whatever the hell they please.” Duke never met a stranger and was cherished by all who knew him.

Duke graduated from Brevard High School in 1987 and later attended Warran Wilson College, where he furthered his education before embarking on a successful career. He was the proud owner and real estate agent of Norma Clayton Realty, a business that held sentimental value, being named after his late mother.

A man of many interests, Duke was an avid fan of UNC Tarheels basketball, enjoyed playing golf, and had a deep appreciation for Western movies, which mirrored his own principles and demeanor. His life was a reflection of the values he held dear.

Duke’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Lisa Parrish; his stepfather Coach Lyndon Clayton (Hammer); his brother Tom and his wife, Cathey; his niece Emily Taylor; his daughter, Samantha Keadle, and son-in-law, Mark Keadle; three cherished grandchildren, Ashleigh, Timothy, and Blake Keadle; his brother-in-law Allen Lucky Lamb; his sister Melanie Hoffman Mace; his stepmother, Bobbie Parrish; and his son, Jordan Harrison. He was preceded in death by his father, James (Jim) Parrish, and his mother, Norma Clayton.

A celebration of life will be held to honor Duke’s memory on November 16, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Moody-Connolly Funeral Home with visitation to follow service. Those wishing to express sympathy are encouraged to share a memory or a story about Duke, celebrating a life well-lived and profoundly impactful. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Transylvania County Animal Services 1124 Old Rosman HWY Brevard, NC. 

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com.

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.