Charles Wesley Parish, Jr.

Charles Wesley Parish, Jr. died peacefully on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. He was a proud alumni of Mark Twain Elementary, San Antonio Academy and Texas Military Institute. He attended Duke University for two years (and was a team cheerleader) and graduated from Trinity University in San Antonio in 1960.

He worked as a cowboy during his summers at the Gallagher Ranch. He joined the United States Army after college and served as a pilot for four years. He then went to work for the family business managing Parish-Draughon’s Business College. When this business was sold to LTV in 1968, he started his own business, Parish Photography, Inc. which is still in business today under the ownership of Jenna-Beth Lyde (whom Charles loved very much.)

Charles never truly retired, taking photographs until the end. He served as Terrell Hills City Councilman for 30 years. Charles also served on the vestry of Christ Episcopal Church, twice.He was a member of the San Antonio Country Club, Conopus Club (where he served as President), Rotary Club and the Texas Cavaliers.

Charles loved working with his hands and was a true artist.

Special thanks to Dr. Michael Lichtenstein, Ben and Bianca Bodea and their staff and Trinity Hospice and Amy Slomka for their wonderful care.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Betty Parish. His two daughters, Kate Lanfear (Dan) and Lisa Thaddeus (Tom); five grandchildren, Charlie Thaddeus (Hannah), Annabelle Thaddeus, Nicole Lanfear, Allison Lanfear, and Walter Lanfear; one great granddaughter, Georgia Belle Thaddeus; his brother, Edwin Parish (Sandy).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to The Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation or a charity of one’s choice.