Kaye J. Floyd-Parris

       With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Kaye Floyd-Parris, who left us on June 8, 2025, at the age of 75.

       Kaye was born on December 23, 1949, in Danville, VA, to the late Raymond Lee “Wimpy” Jones and Margie Gibson Jones. She is survived by her devoted husband, Julius Gatewood Parris, whom she cherished deeply. Reuniting with her high school love later in life was a blessing for them both. They were inseparable—whether in church or at social gatherings—always showing their love for one another in every moment they shared.

       She also leaves behind her children: Lindsay Floyd Howard (Richard) of Darlington, SC; Joseph Jordan Adkins, Jr. (Nancee) of Summerfield, NC; and Nichole Parris Thompson (Richard) of Crystal Lake, IL.

       Kaye was a loving and devoted Nana to her grandchildren: Dr. Ellyn Adkins Boone (Dr. Hunter Boone), Grace Lawton Howard, Richard Huntley Howard Jr., Carter Cherilyn Thompson, and Michael Julius Thompson.

       She is also survived by her siblings: Danny Lee Jones (Brenda), Richard Irving Jones (Margaret), and Raymond Brett Jones (Mary), as well as many cherished nieces and nephews. She was also the most fantastic dog mom to Sir Gatewood of Pawleys, affectionately known as “Woody.”

       To say that family was important to her would be an understatement. She often shared stories about her exceptional children and grandchildren with friends and acquaintances. Nothing made her happier than hosting family events—during holidays, vacations, or even a simple weekend at the beach. Bringing her family together to celebrate and create memories was one of her greatest joys.

       Often referred to as “The Queen,” Kaye would tap her glass and announce, “Nana has the floor” or “Kaye has something to say,” before reminding everyone how blessed we are to have such an amazing family—and how truly proud she was of each one of us.

       Her family will miss her dearly and is committed to keeping her memory alive by gathering often to celebrate her life and make new memories in her honor.

       Kaye’s second great passion in life was her dedication to the local community—as both a business owner and a philanthropist. She began her real estate career in 1980 as a partner in Griggs-Floyd and Grantham, Inc. Kaye was known for “finding the right homes for families, not just houses.” Her compassion and leadership made her a trusted advisor to many relocating to the Pee Dee area. That same compassion extended to her associates, making her a respected and admired business leader in the region.

       Somehow, Kaye also found time to give back to the community that meant so much to her. She served on the McLeod Health Board of Trustees from 1993 to 2018. Her leadership was recognized in 2011 when she became Vice Chairman and later Chairman of the Board—the first female chairman in the board’s century-long history.

       In addition, she was named McLeod Fellow Philanthropist of the Year in 2016, was a charter member of the Dr. F.H. McLeod Legacy Society, and received a permanent honorary portrait in 2019 that now hangs in the hospital.

       Kaye received numerous accolades for her service to the community, including the Women of Achievement Award from the Girl Scouts, Realtor of the Year (1982), Small Business Person of the Year (1992), and the President’s Award for Excellence from the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce. She also served on the Board of Trustees for Truist Bank and the Board of Directors at All Saints Episcopal Church (2007–2013).

       A two-time cancer survivor, Kaye made cancer research a personal mission. In 2006, she and longtime friend Joan Billheimer established the Colors of Cancer fundraising initiative in Florence, SC, which has since raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for cancer research. She also hosted dinners for survivors, mentored those facing cancer battles, and was always a friend to anyone in need.

       Kaye Floyd-Parris and her husband were faithful members of St. John’s Church in Florence, SC.  She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she served with such love and dedication.

       A celebration of Kaye’s life will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at noon at Central United Methodist Church. A private burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the McLeod Foundation, to ensure her mission continues and hope remains for others.

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