Tommy Parrish Retires from Carl Cannon Chevrolet Buick GMC

Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill

After more than four decades of dedicated service, Tommy Parrish has stepped into retirement, leaving behind a legacy of honesty, integrity, and unparalleled customer care at Carl Cannon Chevrolet Buick GMC in Jasper.

Tommy’s time at Carl Cannon began in 1982 when he accepted a position at the dealership, initially planning to try it out for six months.

“Jim Cannon told me, ‘As long as you’re honest with people and take care of them, you’ll do fine,'” Tommy recalls.

That simple advice became the foundation of a career spanning 42 years and nearly 5,000 vehicles sold.

Tommy says that his faith and his family are what kept him going for so long.

Working on commission presented its challenges, but Tommy trusted that God would provide, and his wife, Debra, was his steadfast support at home.

Their partnership allowed them to provide a good life for their children, Julie and Justin, including memorable travels to Disney World and various national parks.

Tommy says traveling will remain a priority in this new chapter of his life, as his and Debra’s retirement plans include a cruise to Alaska in May and a later visit to Acadia National Park.

Throughout his career, Tommy built lasting relationships with his customers. His genuine care earned him countless repeat customers and friends.

“I’ve had people bring me cakes and cookies as thanks. I’ve also helped customers who were navigating difficult times, like losing a spouse, figure out how to buy a car,” he says. “It’s important to me that those customers all know that I saw them as more than just a sale.”

Tommy’s reflections on the dealership are equally heartfelt.

“It’s the only true family dealership in Jasper,” he says. “Jim Cannon built it on honesty and integrity, and Curt Ballard has carried that legacy forward. It’s a special place that truly cares about its employees.”

Tommy’s advice to newcomers in the industry is simple yet profound: “Learn everything you can, take advantage of training opportunities, and start contributing to a 401(k) early. Time flies faster than you think, and you’ll be glad you did.”

As Tommy moves into this next chapter, he leaves behind a message of gratitude to his customers, colleagues, and the dealership that became his second home.

“Thank you for trusting me and for allowing me to serve you over the years,” he wrote in a heartfelt letter. “I’ve been truly blessed.”

While Tommy’s presence at Carl Cannon will be missed, his impact on the community and the dealership will be remembered for years to come.

Here’s to a well-earned retirement filled with family, travel, and all the blessings for which he has worked so hard. WL

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