Joseph Allen Parrish, also known as Joe or his Klown name JoJo, passed away peacefully at his home on May 2, 2023 at the age of 82.   Joe was born in Fairmount, WV on July 9, 1940 to Oley and Doris Parrish. He is preceded in death by his son, Timothy Allen Parrish, who he joined in Heaven on Tim’s birthday.  He is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 65 years, Nancy Howell Parrish, his daughters Tammy Parrish and Kim Horton (Steve Smith), his grandchildren Toshia Guthrie (Adam), Amber Raines (Mike), Noah Horton and Zach Horton, his great-grandchildren Abby Beamer and Mackenzie Guthrie and his sister, Martha Snedeker. Special family members include Gina Henk (Herb), Linda Watkins (Roger) and Bennie Horton.

Joe was a Master Carpenter and Electrician.  He owned his own business, Commercial Maintenance Company, and was known for his handyman skills. There wasn't anything he couldn't do, build, or fix. When his grandsons were small and something broke, they would say, “Pawpaw fit it!”.

Joe was a proud Pawpaw and enjoyed watching his grandsons play football, basketball and baseball.  He was one of their biggest fans and hardly missed a game rain or shine.

Joe was a longtime member of Connelly Memorial Baptist Church and North Roanoke Baptist Church.  He was a devout Christian and enjoyed studying his bible and reading devotionals every morning up until his last days. He found comfort knowing that he would be reunited with loved ones and meet his heavenly father.

He found joy in playing his guitar and was part of a band that played music in local assisted living facilities. He also enjoyed woodworking and is known for his hand made Manger Scene displayed every Christmas.  As his health declined, he would enjoy working in his garage and making various gifts such as clocks, crosses, and knick-knacks. He loved sharing his crafts with others and used his crosses as a form of ministry. 

Joe was a proud member of the Melrose Masonic Lodge and Kazim Klowns.  He volunteered for the Children’s Shriners Hospital by transporting local children to the hospital in Greenville, SC for them to receive care. Joe had the biggest heart and was known for saying, "When life hands you lemons, you make lemonade." He was an optimistic person and always happy. 

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 7, 2023 from 1 pm to 2:30 pm at North Roanoke Baptist Church with a Celebration of Life Service immediately following at 3:00 pm with Rev. Daniel Palmer and Rev. Brenda Rowe officiating.    

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital,  https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/ .

Arrangements by Oakey's North Chapel.