Joseph Robert Parry’s remarkable time on Earth came to an end on February 28, 2025, during his 99 th year of life. Even though we are saddened by his passing we find comfort in knowing Joseph has joined his loving wife Patricia, who he married November 4, 1950, and his parents Stefano and Concetta (Tonti) Parisi for a joyous reunion in Heaven.
Joseph was born November 7, 1925. Joseph’s life story began with a twist of fate that would
shape generations to come. His father, Stefano Parisi, was arranged to marry Joseph’s
mother’s sister. When she fell ill in Italy, Concetta Tonti was sent in her place, making the
journey from Italy to America. They married in 1910 in Columbus, Ohio, setting the stage for a legacy of love and family that would define Joseph’s life. Joseph’s parents had 5 children while they lived in Columbus with those children having the last name of Parisi.
When Stefano and Concetta moved to Mansfield they had three more children, who were
given the Americanized last name of Parry, which was common practice at the time. From
Joe’s earliest days, he was immersed in the warmth of family and the rich aromas of his parents’ restaurant, Steve’s Place. The fantastic Italian cuisine cooked by his mother
Concetta became one of Joe’s fondest childhood memories, instilling in him a deep
appreciation for family, good food, and cherished moments shared around the table.
You can’t talk about Joe without mentioning his lifelong love for sports. In high school, he
played many sports and was particularly proud of playing as a sophomore in the state
football championship game – Mansfield Senior vs Massillon. Joe’s athletic spirit never left
him. His dedication to staying active his entire life was an inspiration to us all.
But Joseph’s dedication extended far beyond the realm of sports. Drafted during high school, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the Navy during World War II. Joseph proudly served aboard the USS Wrangell, one of two experimental ammo delivery ships in the Pacific. He often recalled watching the raising of the American flag at Iwo Jima – both times – a testament to his front-row seat to history and his enduring patriotism.
Returning from the war, Joseph embarked on a career at the Mansfield Tire Company, where his leadership and negotiation skills shone brightly. Serving as the union secretary for many years, he proved to be an effective advocate for his fellow workers. His talents were recognized by union leaders, who offered him a position covering all of Ohio. In a decision that epitomized his character, Joseph declined, stating, “It would take me away from my family too much.” This choice reflected the cornerstone of Joseph’s philosophy: family always comes first.
In his retirement years, Joseph and Patricia lived on the Gulf Coast of Florida, where he
enjoyed many years of sunshine and golf. Some of his favorite moments were when his
nephews would visit from Ohio to join him on the golf course, combining his love of family
with his passion for the game.
Joseph’s commitment to family was most beautifully exemplified in his 69-year marriage to
Patricia, who preceded him in death in 2019. Patricia was truly the light of Joe’s life, and he
cared for her devotedly into his 90s. Together, they raised two children who survive them.
Marcy Parry who lives in Mansfield and James Parry who lives Venice, Florida. Joe and
Patricia are also survived by grandchildren Rachel Parisi, Rianne Sanchez, and Scott
Kamen, and great-grandchildren Katherine and Jack Watson, and Santiago and Rafael
Sanchez. Joseph’s family extended far beyond just children and grandchildren. He was blessed with a large, loving extended family, including his caregivers and nieces Diana Baker and Joyce Turner, his nephew Steven Harbaugh and nieces Carol Cassel and Kathleen Smith. Each of them held a special place in his heart.
Joseph requested that no services be observed. As we say goodbye to Joseph Robert Parry
in our own way, he would want us to carry forward the lessons he taught us by embracing your
families, serving your community, and living each day with the same zest and dedication that characterized his 99 remarkable years.
The Parry family welcomes cards of condolences and stories about Joe which can be sent to
the Parry family home at 750 Rachel Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44907. For those who want to
honor Joe monetarily, Joe requested that they donate to their local high school athletic
program. The Parry family would also like to extend a personal and heartfelt thank you to the folks at Southern Care Hospice and Liberty Nursing Center of Mansfield for their care and caring.
Funeral Home: Ohio Cremation & Memorial Society
Website: www.ohiocremation.org