Alton Parrish III

Parrott Alton Parrish III, known to everyone simply as Alton, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at his home in Bastrop, Texas.

A native of North Carolina, Alton was born in Raleigh on February 8, 1952, the son of Parrott Alton Parrish, Jr., and Nina Parrish. He grew up in the Trinity Park neighborhood of Durham, but his curiosity, creativity, and friendships carried him far beyond.

Alton attended Durham High School, later studying at the University of Wisconsin and graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He was a devoted Tar Heel and could dissect a UNC basketball game with the eye of a coach and the passion of a true fan. His deep knowledge of the game made him a favorite companion during March Madness, when his running commentary was often more entertaining than the actual broadcast.

Writing was both Alton’s profession and his craft. He began his career in Houston as a writer and editor for Metro News Service. Later he contributed to many other publications and was nationally recognized as an expert in nanotechnology. He especially enjoyed researching emerging companies and the opportunities they offered. He was a gifted digital creator, even designing apparel. He blended words, images and ideas in creative and unexpected ways, most likely reflecting his growing up as an avid comic book collector. Alton shared a deep love of words with his mother, Nina, with the two of them often playing marathon games of Scrabble that stretched into the wee hours of the morning.

Alton had a unique way of seeing the world, frequently through the lens of a camera. Animals were among his greatest joys -- whether his beloved dogs and cats, or the squirrels and raccoons that came to be captured on his game cameras. True to his inventive spirit, he built elaborate obstacle courses to give his “wild cast of characters” the best possible stage for their dramatic performances.

Alton lived in Houston for many years before making his home in Bastrop in 2011. There he shared a home with his partner, noted potter Susan Hanft, and his faithful dog, Zak. Alton’s loyalty to his friends is legendary, with many of those close bonds stretching back to elementary school – friendships he nurtured across the decades and miles.

Alton is survived by Susan, Zak, his sisters Diana Parrish (Max Wallace), Joan Parrish, and Julie Parrish (Kim Hanna), together with a wide circle of family and friends who will remember his quick wit, boundless imagination, and the way he made the world a little more surprising and a lot more fun.

Alton would be pleased if you were to remember him by cheering loudly for his Tar Heels. You can also make contributions in his memory to Austin Wildlife Rescue or Austin Pets Alive!.