Paris, longtime funeral director, dies at 51
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Paris began his funeral direction career with High Funeral Home in 1972 after graduating from Gufton and Jones School in Atlanta, Ga. He followed his father, Hugh Paris, into the business with High’s, becoming a second generation funeral director.
Paris was active in the Rotary Club of McMinnville where he was a longtime member and a Paul Harris Fellow, serving on several committees during his tenure. He was also a former member of the Jaycees where he had been active for many years. He was a member of First United Methodist Church.
Friend and fellow High’s funeral director Steve West said Paris was not only dedicated to his work, but also his community.
“He was the most thoughtful, giving man I’ve ever known,” West said. “He did a lot for people that no one ever knew about. He didn’t do things for the glory. He did it to help people.”
West recalled Paris was also quick with a joke and always in good humor.
“He was a light-hearted person. He loved to tell jokes,” West said.
Rotary Club president Marv Tieman also recalled Paris’ sense of humor, which often spiced up Rotary meetings.
“He was just a neat guy to know,” Tieman said. “He was always smiling. He was well respected by the members and everybody is going to miss him.”
Members of the Rotary Club of McMinnville will serve as honorary pallbearers. The VFW Post 5064 and American Legion 173 honor guard will also be honorary pallbearers given the close relationship between the squad and Paris over the years.