Sherman Leonard Parris, age 80, passed away Friday, August 30, 2024.

Sherman was born in Bryson City to the late Hoke Parris and Maude Freeman Parris. Always seen with a smile on his face, he never met a stranger and never missed a chance to help someone in need. Sherman never let grass grow under his feet, and when he wasn't working or spending time with friends or family- he could be found on a tractor bailing hay or feeding cattle. He was a member of Franklin Church of God.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his five brothers and one sister, Cleophus, Robert, Wade, Troy, Mack, and Pansy.

Survivors include his wife of 19 years, Cathy Parris; four daughters, Kimbery Ledford (Floyd), Wendy Stockton (Jimmy), Misty Haynie (Chuck), and Amy Cooper; one sister and two brothers, Janice Caldwell (Ernest), Tommy Parris (Jackie), and Charlie Parris (Joretta); many nieces and nephews; special friend, Chris Watson; and many more friends. He is also survived by the lights of his life- seven granddaughters, Emily Parris, Collynn Haynie, Megan Haynie, Hannah Jennings, Hailey Jennings, Chloe Jennings, and Naomi Ainsworth; 6 great grandsons and 3 great granddaughters; and his faithful companion, Princess.

A celebration of Sherman's life will take place at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday at Franklin Church of God. Interment will be private. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 A.M. at the church. Reverend Michael Stephens, Reverend Hank Conner, and Reverend Don Moffitt will officiate.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Men's Challenge of the Smokies.