Jesse Leon Parish, 90, of Orange, died Saturday, March 14, 2009, in his home.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2009, at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Marv Howland. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Orange.

Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 pm, Monday, at the funeral home.

Leon was born in Orange, Texas on January 1, 1919, the son of Jesse and Lillie Lewis Parish. He was a life long resident of Orange, a graduate of Stark High School and served his country from November 1942 to April 1946. He was awarded the Silver Star, Five Bronze Stars, Two Purple Hearts, one which had an Oak Leaf cluster, and a Presidential citation. Leon served in General George Patton's 3rd Army and was the only officer to come out of Bastogne alive. After being discharged from the Army, he opened his own accounting business which he operated until his retirement in 2007. Leon was a life long member of the Lions Club and Ducks Unlimited. He was an Enrolled Agent with the IRS and a member of TAFTS Texas Association of Financial and Tax Specialist. He was an avid hunter and member of the NRA. After retiring, he enjoyed spending time in his beautiful gardens that surrounded his home.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Arthur Lee Parish.

He is survived by his loving companion of 25 years, LaVerne Hubbard of Orange; and cousin, Juanita Holt of Monroe, Louisiana.

He will be greatly missed by us all. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Orange Public Library.