Donald E. Parrish

Age 86, of Wilmington, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 20, 2024 singing in his last words "Everything's Gonna Be Alright..."

Born on June 30, 1938, in Kankakee, Illinois, Donald Earl Parrish was a son of Elmer and Bernice (Howard) Parrish. He spent his formative years in Braidwood and graduated from Reed Custer High School with the Class of 1956.

Don proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1961 to 1963, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to his nation. Following his honorable discharge, he embarked on a successful entrepreneurial journey, owning and operating Parrish Blacktop for an impressive 49 years until his retirement. Not one to sit idle, Don continued his passion for sealcoating until the age of 79, and throughout the years earned the nickname "Phantom".

Don was actively involved in various organizations including the Wilmington Moose Lodge #241, Wilmington VFW #5422, and the Wilmington A.F. & A.M. Lodge #208. He had a deep appreciation for music and shared his talent as the lead of the Getinany’s Band, a local favorite for many years. Don’s voice resonated through Wilmington as he annually sang the National Anthem, marking the opening seasons of baseball, a testament to his patriotism and love for the sport.

Beyond his professional and community accomplishments, Don cherished his adventures with his late wife, Susie, particularly their travels and their shared passion for following the NASCAR Circuit. Among his most cherished possessions was his ’59 Ford Skyliner Retractable Hardtop, affectionately known as "Old Blue."

Known for his infectious laughter, warm smile, and genuine kindness, Don was a true good Samaritan who never met a stranger. However, above all else, his devotion to his family shone brightest. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to those he held dear.

Donald E. Parrish will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on his community and beyond.

Survivors include his children: daughter, Jill (Brian) Gill of Wilmington and son, Ron (Tammie) Parrish of Braidwood; grandchildren: Shane (Tara) Longest, Jerrick (Ivana) Longest, Hunter Gill, Bre Parrish, Alyssa Parrish, Rachel (Dave) Valencia and Mark (Ashley) Vaughn; great grandchildren: Nashtyn, Kyson, Kade, Khloë, Malena, Makiah, Tyler, Caeden, Nolan, Annistyn, Elliette, Audrey, Lucas, Bailey, Lydia, Zoei and Issac; siblings: Richard (Jinnie) Parrish, Bonnie (Bill) Favero, Barb (Pat) Duffy, Bev (Mike) Duffy, Michael (Jan) Parrish, Peggy (Jimmy) Cole, Linda (Doug) Mandat, Lillie (Steve) Heitke, and Donna (the late Tommy) Thompson; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Sandy Parrish, James (the late Jane) Balentine, Steve (Donna) Thomas, Terry Thomas, Robert Thomas, Mary (Fred) Gaddis and Denise (the late Mike) Thomas, and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces, great nephew, cousins and friends. Not to forget his extraordinary caregiver, Alejandro who was truly an angel on earth.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Susie (Thomas) on August 29, 2022; one grandson Thomas Vaughn; one great-grandson Liam Vaughn; one brother John Parrish; one sister, Lois (Ray) Martin and two nephews, Eric Parrish and Ryan Heitke.

A private family visitation was held, and green flameless cremation rites have been accorded.

The family will receive friends for a celebration of Don’s life at the Wilmington Moose Lodge, 32050 West River Road in Wilmington on Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until time of remembrance at 4:00 p.m. Food and fellowship will then follow until 6:00 p.m.

He will be laid to rest with Susie in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood on Monday morning, August 12, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. Those wishing to attend the cemetery committal are welcome to join the funeral procession which will depart Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington at 8:45 a.m.

Preferred memorials in lieu of flowers may be made as gifts in Don’s memory to a charity of the donor’s choosing.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Don’s memorial page online through social media.

Green flameless cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)