The Perry Parham Memorial Fields at Larry Bell Park are named in tribute to James Perry “Perry” Parham, a young boy whose passion for baseball and inspiring spirit left a lasting mark on his community. Born on October 3, 1940, and tragically passing away at age 12 on July 25, 1953, Perry’s legacy continues through these fields where young athletes play the sport he loved.
Perry Parham was a bright and enthusiastic player on the Marietta Little League team. He attended Waterman Street School and was known for his dedication and skill on the baseball field. Tragically, Perry’s life was cut short when he was hit by a motorist while riding his bike at dusk on Hedges Street. He succumbed to his injuries a few days later at Kennestone Hospital, just a couple of months before his 13th birthday.
In memory of Perry, the Little League fields in Marietta were named The Perry Parham Memorial Baseball Fields. Now part of the Larry Bell Park complex, these four fields are commonly referred to as the Perry Parham Fields. A memorial marker (shown below) near the fields honors his achievements and influence on the youth of Marietta:
PERRY PARHAM
OCT. 3, 1940 – JULY 25, 1953
DUPRE’S 1951
LOCKHEED 1952
FISHERMAN’S GRILL 1953
ALL STAR TEAM 1951-52-53
MOST POPULAR PLAYER 1951
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER 1952-53
AN INSPIRATION TO ALL YOUTH
Note that this is a historical marker, though it looks a bit like a gravestone. Perry Parham was buried in the Mountain View Park Cemetery.
The Perry Parham Memorial Fields offer four well-maintained baseball fields where young athletes can play and develop their skills. In addition to the fields, the park includes batting cages for practice and a concession building for refreshments.
Address:
Larry Bell Park
592 Fairground Street
Marietta Ga 30060
Phone:
(770) 528-8824
