Park Street between South Ocean and Rider Avenues was renamed Jake Parris Way recently in memory of the late Calvin "Jake" Parris.
As a former dedicated coach of the Patchogue 40 Thieves Drill Team, Honorary Chief of the Patchogue Fire Department and past New York State Firefighter of the Year, it seems appropriate that this section of Park Street is where the Van Guard Hose Company #1 firehouse is located, of which Parris was a longtime member.
Family and friends attended the unveiling of the street sign to honor the man so many knew simply as Popsie. Described as a "one of a kind", with a great sense of humor and "infectious smile", people who knew him well say this is a fitting tribute.
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"No greater person in this village could deserve a street being named after them. He was a great guy who pushed guys to become champions, heroes, legends," one Facebook post reads on a closed group for the Patchogue Fire Department 40 Thieves Drill Team.
Sunday's dedication serves as a celebration of the memories and lessons that Parris left behind.
