Frank J. Parise

Frank Parise, 88, of Melbourne, Florida, peacefully entered Heaven on October 1, 2020, surrounded by his loving family. Frank was born on December 3, 1931, in Brooklyn, NY, the only child of Michael and Mary Parise. He married Jean Atkins in 1954, and together they had three children. Frank was a highly respected educator in Prince George’s County, Maryland, starting as an elementary school teacher before being promoted to principal. He was known as a fair but firm administrator, and knew the importance of setting high expectations for his students at an early age to maximize their academic and personal potential. He retired after 28 years of dedicated service, and he and Jean fulfilled their lifelong dream of moving to Florida in 1984.

Frank was tenderhearted and loved the Lord deeply. He was a member of Suntree United Methodist Church since 1985, where he was often moved to tears during worship. Frank was a generous man with a quick sense of humor who enjoyed living life to its fullest. He was an avid golfer for 30 years, and spent many hours perfecting his game on the golf course. He could be found at Suntree Country Club on any given weeknight, playing gin rummy and poker with his retiree buddies. He loved the thrill of winning, and would try his luck at the horse track or at the casino on occasion. Perhaps his most favorite pastime was watching NFL football. He was a proud holder of coveted Washington Redskins season tickets, and absolutely loved the game of football—a love he passed down to his children. He could recite statistics and player facts like no other. Frank also enjoyed traveling—especially cruising, where many great memories were made with family and friends. He was so very proud of his family, and nothing brought him more joy than just being with them, enjoying a great meal, and sharing stories. He was quite a character, to say the least, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness. True to Sinatra’s song, Frank lived a life that was full, and most of all, did it his way.

He is predeceased by his parents and Jean, his wife of 50 years. He was fortunate to find love again, and married Christine Davis in 2006. He is survived by his wife, Christine Parise; children, Vicki Galyen (Cliff), David Parise (Michaele), Karen Price (Ercan); stepson David Myers (Thelma); grandchildren, Nathan Price, Baylee Price, Nikki Parise, Jenna Parise, Rebecca Galyen, and Bethany Galyen; step-granddaughter, Kayla Myers; and step-great-grandson, Kashten.

A Celebration of Frank’s incredible life will be held at the Life Event Center at Florida Memorial , Rockledge, Florida on Monday, October 5, 2020 with a visitation at 10:00 and 11:00 service.

The family wishes to thank Suntree United Methodist Church for their unwavering support during Frank’s illness and Hospice of St. Francis for the loving care they provided him during his final days. Thank you for the meals and support from the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Viera Ward, along with our loving family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Frank’s memory may be made to the Hospice of St. Francis, Suntree United Methodist Church, or the Alzheimer’s Association.