LT. COL Samuel Ray Parris U.S. Army (RET)

LT. COL Samuel Ray Parris, U.S. Army (RET), 91, of Homosassa, FL, passed away on Wed., Feb. 4, 2026 at HPH Hospice Care Center in Brooksville, FL. A native of Tallassee, AL, he was born March 19, 1934 to the late Henry and Lilly (Prichett) Parris. Sam, as he was known to everyone, graduated from high school in Crestview, FL and then attended Auburn University, where he was a member of the band. Upon earning his Bachelor's Degfee from Auburn, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army as a field artillery officer, and served tours in Germany, Korea, and Vietnam. He proudly and honorably served his country for the next 20 years, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His decorations included the Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (twice), and the Bronze Star. Upon retirement, he moved to Candler, NC, where he and his wife Phyllis operated Pisqah View Ranch for 28 years. In 2004, they sold the ranch and moved to Riverhaven Village in Homosassa. Sam is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Phyllis Parris, on Dec. 10, 2013. He is survived by his two sons: Wesley Parris, Southbury, CT and Richard Parris (wife Chrissie, Spring Hill, FL; and three grandchildren. Graveside Military Honors will take place on Sat., Feb. 14, 2026 at 12:00 P.M. at Fountains Memorial Park, 5635 W. Green Acres St., Homosassa, FL 34446. Macrini-Wilder Funeral Home, Homosassa, Florida.