Doris Parry

Doris Parry, of Peterborough NH, passed away on May 28, 2017 two days after her 94th birthday. Doris was born in Brooklyn, NY on May 26, 1923, the first daughter of Harold Selden Arnoys and Gladys Belle Hollomon Parker Arnoys, She grew up in Queens and Jamaica NY and became high school valedictorian. Then she worked for a few years to save for college and proudly joined the US Navy in 1945 to serve in the WAVES. At 27, immediately upon earning her BA from Adelphi, she married John Charles Parry on June 24, 1950. At age 47, Doris went back to school to earn a Masters in Education. She subsequently taught for two decades in the Rowayton CT, Reading MA, and Rockford IL elementary schools, then part time in Rhode Island until retiring in 1995 at 72, whereupon she (and John) taught ESL. Wow, Mrs. Parry!! When John passed away in 2012, Doris relocated to Summerhill Assisted Living community in Peterborough NH. With all that she accomplished in her life, the most important thing to her was raising her three sons. Doris never ceased expressing joy when communing with nature. "Just LOOK at that tree!" She built a family tradition of bringing rocks back from adventures, each carefully labeled. One of her fondest adventures was a cross-country train trip to the Grand Canyon with her best friend Laverne. Doris was a faithful 2nd mate to captain John throughout 50 years of sailing adventures, often accompanied by friends and family. Doris was famous for spontaneously connecting with people, even complete strangers, especially children - there was no rushing out of a restaurant after a meal! She was quick to offer a helping hand or be of service, whether volunteering at the Y, teaching Sunday School or baking and delivering hot cross buns to all the neighbors. She loved to sing as a way of joining with others, and will be fondly remembered for her cheery hellos, quick wit and especially her ability to light up another person's day through her smile. Doris bequeathed an indelible example of unconditional love to her sons and their families. She is survived by three sons: Charles Parry and his wife Marijean Legnard Parry of Jaffrey NH; Joel Parry, his wife Laura Ceballos Parry and their children Paul and Elliot of Jamaica Plain MA; and Jesse Corvid of Brattleboro VT. A memorial service will be held on Friday June 9 at 2PM at the Peterborough United Methodist Church, 43 Concord Street, Peterborough, NH, with a reception immediately following the service. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that contributions be made in Doris' name to the National Audubon Society. To view memorial photos or to leave a note of your own, go to www.jellisonfuneralhome.com

---