Gary Thomas Parris (born June 13, 1950 in East St. Louis, Illinois), is a former professional American football tight end. He played for three different teams from 1973–1980, including the San Diego Chargers, Cleveland Browns, and St. Louis (Arizona) Cardinals. Parris was also involved in politics. He served on the Vero Beach City Council from 1984–1986, and recently ran for the Indian River County, Florida Commission District 3 seat in 2008, and lost to incumbent Gary C. Wheeler. Parris served in the U.S. Army National Guard for 6 years. He is an Eagle Scout