William James Parham, II

Mr. William (Bill) James Parham II, born January 30, 1945, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 7, 2026. Bill lived a full and meaningful life, defined by hard work, loyalty, lasting friendships, and, above all, a deep love for his family.

Bill was the devoted husband of Maria Angelicchio for 60 wonderful years. Married in 1966, they built a beautiful life together, one rooted in love, commitment, and countless memories. Their life together was the foundation of the family they cherished and the greatest testament to the love they shared.

Born and raised in Springfield, Ohio, to his late parents, William James Parham and Jeanne Farrell, Bill graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1963 and later attended Ohio University before serving six years in the United States Army Reserves. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 3737 and was also honored as a Kentucky Colonel in Lexington.

Bill dedicated 47 years of his professional life to International Harvester in heavy duty truck sales, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, father and working alongside his brother. His career took him to Lexington, Cleveland, Miami, and Atlanta, where he built not only a successful career but also a wonderful circle of friends. To Bill, many of those friendships became more like family, and the connections he made along the way remained an important part of his life.

For the past 20 years, Bill and Maria have called Lavonia, Georgia, and on the shores of Lake Hartwell home. It was a place where he could enjoy the things he loved most: time with Maria, family and friends, life on the lake, and making memories with the people who meant so much to him.

Bill found joy in life's simple pleasures. He never met a stranger and had a way of turning acquaintances into lifelong friends. He loved to tell a good story, share a good laugh, and, most importantly, be in good company, never passing up a “cold one.” He especially enjoyed reminiscing and sharing stories from his past, bringing his experiences to life for those around him. He was a loyal Notre Dame fan who loved cheering on the Fighting Irish, and he could often be found enjoying the sounds of the oldies but goodies music that brought back memories and good times. His friendships spanned decades and miles, a reflection of the genuine connections he made with everyone he met.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Edward and Matilda Farrell, sister and brother-in-law, Susie and John Collins, and his niece, Julie Krupp.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Maria Angelicchio Parham; his daughter, Jennifer Meese (Jeff) of Cumming, Georgia; his sons, Brian Parham (Cheryl) of Summerfield, North Carolina, and Michael Parham (Danna) of Roswell, Georgia; and former daughter-in-law, Valerie Parham. He was a proud grandfather to Kyle (Maddie) Meese, Joshua (Maecie) Meese, Emily Meese, Keren Parham, Kelly Parham, Jack Parham, Will Parham, Zachary Meese, and Jennie Love Meese; and a proud great-grandfather to Jaxon and Bennett Meese. Each one of them brought so much joy to his life.

He is also survived by his brother, Stephen Parham (Theresa); his sister, Mary Ann Gayonski (Joe); and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Creekside Church, 673 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041.

In true Bill fashion, family and friends are encouraged to wear blue and gold or Notre Dame attire as we celebrate a life well lived and a man who will always be part of our team.