Mary Louise Reed Parish, the daughter of Homer Reed and Nell C. Smith, was born on March 7, 1940 in Marshall, Texas. She was educated in the Marshall Public School System.

Mary's true gift of love, devotion and commitment was shown as she raised, loved and nurtured four sons, who loved her to life, for her endless sacrifices. A devout and faithful Christian, she united with Canaan Missionary Baptist Church of Marshall, Texas at an early age. Not only was she committed to family and friends but also to her work.

Mrs. Parish is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Barbra Ann Washington, Dorothy Jean Newhouse Smith, Alice Faye Macafee; brother, Erick (John) Newhouse, Jr.

Mrs. Parish is survived by her children, Robert Reed (Pat) of Marshall, Texas, Willie Earl Elder of Marshall, Texas, Randy J. Elder (Shelly) of Tyler, Texas, and Michael D. Parish of Marshall, Texas;  sisters, Karlene Hurd (Oliver) of Marshall, Texas, and Katherine Boyd (Randolph) of Dallas, Texas; 14 grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is also survived by a special aunt, Janie Knighton.