Richard Parrish

Richard L. Parrish went to be with the Lord March 23, 2023. He was born Dec. 25, 1935 in Arkansas City, Kan. to Luther and Gwendola Parrish. 
After graduation from high school, he married his high school sweetheart Betty Jean Leiker on Thanksgiving Day, 1953. The Lord blessed them with 70 wonderful years. Their four children Dixie, Diana, Ron and Richard Jr. were proud to call him dad. So were the five grandchildren, Ryan, Hunter, Charlie, Morgan and Braynna.  They also had two great-grandchildren Ryla, Pearl and Asa. 
Richard taught welding and square dance class for many years at the New Mexico Junior College. After retiring as purchasing agent for Star Tool, he had more time for the love of his life which was square dancing. He and Betty started square dancing here in Hobbs in 1953. In 1961, he decided to be a caller. He had a fantastic voice and loved to be on stage, signing and making people happy.
In 1994, Richard and Betty were honored at the New Mexico State Festival where they were inducted into the New Mexico Hall of Fame.
Richard’s other accomplishments were, ask to call in many states in the U.S., Hawaii, Alaska, Switzerland and Germany. He recorded many records.
Richard was honored to be listed in the Square Dance Callers of America book, a member of Caller Lab Organization of the U.S. 
He built the Chaparral Center in 1976 (square dance hall) so the club could have a place to dance each Thursday. Also opened Parrish Petticoat Parlor (square dance apparel shop).

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