Former Kentucky Senate Democratic whip dies

Former Kentucky Democratic Senate Whip Dennis Parrett died Sunday. He was 66. 

The Democratic Senate Caucus announced his death Monday morning on social media. Parrett, of Elizabethtown, represented the 10th Senate District from 2011 to 2023. The caucus gave condolences to Parrett’s family, friends, colleagues and former constituents. 

“Senator Parrett served with humility, dedication, and a deep commitment to the people of his district. In Frankfort, he worked to make Kentucky more military-friendly, supported stronger financial literacy education for students, and helped create the bipartisan Sunny Page Program, giving children with disabilities the opportunity to experience state government firsthand,” the caucus’ post said. 

Senate Democratic Floor Leader Gerald Neal, of Louisville, said in a statement that Parrett “was a good man, a faithful public servant, and a trusted colleague.”

“For 12 years, I had the privilege of serving alongside him in the Kentucky Senate. I saw his consistency up close,” Neal said. “Through changing political seasons, difficult debates, and moments that tested both the institution and the commonwealth, Dennis carried himself with humility, honesty, and respect for the people he represented.”

The current seatholder, Republican Sen. Matt Deneen, called Parrett a friend in a Facebook post. 

“I have always held Dennis and his family in high regard. He was a great family man respected by all who knew him,” Deneen said. “Whether you had the privilege of working with him in Frankfort or here at home throughout the community. He was a man of integrity. His leadership style, bipartisan approach, and family centered-focus on serving others were all qualities worthy of emulating.” 

Senate Republican leaders also shared their condolences in a joint statement.

“In moments like these, we are reminded that a person’s legacy is measured by the lives touched and the example set. Dennis will be remembered for his kindness, decency and service,” the Republicans said. “He leaves behind a legacy evident in the people he served and the relationships he built throughout his life.”

When deciding to not seek reelection, Parrett told The News-Enterprise that he had decided to shift his focus to overcoming health problems and spending time with his family. 

“I just try to do what I think would be best for Hardin County and is morally right,” he said in an interview with the newspaper in 2021. “And I take it seriously.”

Parrett worked in agriculture business with Cecilia Farm Service and Kentucky Crop Insurance before retiring. 

Funeral arrangements for Parrett were still pending as of Monday morning.