Gary Keith Parris

Retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer / Public Safety Professional in Arden, North Carolina

Gary Keith Parris is a candidate for Buncombe County Sheriff in Asheville, North Carolina — 2026 Primary Election. Running as Republican.

Also running: Quentin E. Miller.

Gary Parris is a Buncombe County native who began his career with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office. He then served 22 years in the U.S. Navy in cryptology and naval intelligence, retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. His military service included multiple deployments and commendations such as the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. After his naval career, he worked in criminal justice and corrections, serving as a captain at a level-five maximum security prison. Parris holds a master's degree in strategic intelligence and another master's in public administration with a concentration in criminal justice. He was raised in the French Broad community, graduated from North Buncombe High School, and also attended Montreat-Anderson College.

Website: https://www.parrisforsafety.com/