Alvin Parris III

Monday November 4, 2024.

Pastor Alvin Parris III Passed Monday, November 4, 2024, at age 73. Predeceased by his father, Alvin Parris Jr.; his mother, L. Edith Parris; his brother, Gregory L. Parris, and sister-in-law, Myra E. Parris.

Survived by his loving wife, Debra B. Parris; sons Benjamin Parris, Christopher Parris, Jonathan Parris; daughter Cherise Parris; grandchildren Benjamin J. Parris, Tea Parris, Aidan Parris, Jason Parris, Cheyenne Parris, Alvin J. B. Parris, Rensselaer Parris; sister, Janelle Parris; brother, Javon Parris; along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and Godchildren.

Born in Washington, DC, Alvin graduated from McKinley Tech High School and later from the Eastman School of Music. He served as Pastor, presently Associate Pastor at Joy Community Church in Rochester, NY. Alvin was also a dedicated teacher with the Rochester City School District, Parris Music Instruction (PMI), and Eastman Community School. He directed choirs across Rochester area churches, community choirs, and institutions like the University of Rochester and Hochstein, while being a sought-after Gospel, Classical, and Jazz musician (piano and trombone).

Pastor Alvin Parris III, Associate Pastor of Joy Community Church, will lie in state from 9-11 am Tuesday November 19, 2024, at Bethel Christian Fellowship, 321 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14604. Divine liturgy will begin promptly at 11 am in the main sanctuary. Entombment at White Haven Memorial Park.