James Parry

Our loving dad, grandpa, and friend, James “Jim” Parry, took his last breath on August 2, 2026. His daughter, Robin and granddaughter, Chelsea were by his side, bringing him comfort and love as he passed peacefully. Had he not suffered complications from diabetes and foot surgery, he would likely still be puttering around his yard and tending his garden with the same care and quiet joy he brought to everything in his life.

Jim came into this world with a unique story. He was born as James Arthur Cole in Livingston, Montana, on October 30, 1934, to his parents, Carl Joseph Cole and Elizabeth Ricci Cole. Jim was only five years old when his mother tragically died in an accident. Out of that heartbreak came a beautiful chapter of love, as he was later raised and legally adopted by her sister, Marguerite Ricci, and her husband, Henry “Hank” Parry. These early life experiences forged in him a deep sense of resilience and adaptability. As a young man, Jim learned to truly go with the flow. This easygoing, patient approach to life blossomed into a personality that was both deeply endearing and engaging, making him incredibly easy to love and impossible to forget. He carried a melody in his spirit and a smile that could light up any room, leaving behind stories of remarkable talent and warmth.

Jim grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he attended West High School. He was a natural leader, proudly serving his peers as the Vice President of his Junior Class. It was during those vibrant high school years that he met Joan Hovey, who would later become his first wife and a deeply important part of his life story. Joan recalls his beautiful singing voice, one that carried the presence of a true star, a wonderful legacy of talent which was inherited by their son and granddaughter, Tawny.

Following high school, Jim answered the call to serve his country, spending four dedicated years as a radar operator in the United States Air Force. Stationed in the rugged landscapes of Alaska, Jim served in the Armed Forces Radio Service as a radio operator at the Alaska Station TKNA. Jim mastered the technical skills of communication-talents he would carry with him for the rest of his life. He also served in the Air National Guard.

Upon his return to Salt Lake City, Jim shared his expertise by teaching classes on radar operations. He was an engaging instructor, with a remarkable ability to flawlessly write backward on the board while teaching, according to the fond recollections of Joan.

In 1954, James and Joan welcomed their daughter, Robin Jessica Parry, who was born at Sandia Air Force Base Hospital near Albuquerque, New Mexico. Their son, James Arthur Parry II, whom they called Jamie, was born in 1956, in Lynwood, California. Although divorcing in 1958, they remained permanently linked through the beautiful family they built together.

In 1959, Jim married Shirley Peterson in Salt Lake City. Together, they moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho, where they made their home and raised their four children; Guy Grant Parry, Rick Henry Parry, Lori Gay Parry, and Lance James Parry. Jim and Shirley loved gardening together and once won an award for having the most beautiful yard in their neighborhood.

It was in Idaho Falls, that Jim built a diverse and impactful career. He worked in various sales and managerial positions and proudly served his community on the Idaho Falls police force. However, his true professional passion lay in the airwaves. Jim shared with his granddaughter, Chelsea that his absolute favorite job was being a disc jockey at KUPI, because it was simply so much fun for him. In 1969, he helped start the first annual Ski-Doo Press Grass Dash and brought home the first-place trophy. He worked for KPVI and then for KIFI TV 8 from the early 70's until his retirement from Channel 8 News around 1993. As holder of an FCC license, Jim was a Master Control Operator, switching audio and video, controlling satellite systems. He also worked with the newsroom for live updates and maintained the station log. Lance said he was able to work with him and really enjoyed the bond they experienced during that time.

Jim's life was a beautiful composition of service, intellect, humor, and unforgettable charm. Animals and children naturally gravitated toward him, sensing the pure kindness and warmth he carried in his soul. He will be remembered forever for the life he lived, the love he shared with his family and friends, and the beautiful memories he leaves behind. While his physical voice may be quiet, the joyful melody of his life, his green thumb, and that unmistakable star-quality smile will play on forever in their hearts.

He will be deeply missed by his daughters, Robin (Dan) Anderson, Lori (Timothy) Fuller, and Belynda (Dan) Griffin; his sons, Rick and Lance Parry; his granddaughter, Chelsea (Sean) McCormick; 26 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law and confidant, Sharon Calverly; his ex-wife, Joan Sloan; and special friends and neighbors, who loved and watched over "grandpa" Vanessa Enriquez and Arturo Saenz.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; his sons, James II and Guy.

The loved ones of James wish to express their appreciation for the compassionate care he received from the caretakers at Promontory Point.

A celebration of James' life will be announced later.