Herbert Parlato

Herbert Charles Parlato, or affectionately known as “Butchie,” “Herbie,” and “Herb”, 76, of Miami, passed
away on March 8, 2023, with his children by his side. He fought a brave battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Born on September 4, 1946, to Herbert and Marie Parlato in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey and proud grandson
to Italian immigrants, Herb’s fondest memories of growing up in Wood-Ridge were playing little league
baseball and spending time with his friends and family. He maintained those close ties with his childhood
friends throughout his life.
At the age of sixteen, he and his family moved to Miami, Florida where he attended Miami Senior High
School. After graduating in 1964, he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he was stationed for two years
in Germany. After serving his country, Herb returned to New Jersey and subsequently relocated to Miami
where he and his wife, Helen Jean Bayer resided with their two children Lillian and Herbie.
Herb attended Miami Dade College and graduated from the University of Miami with a degree in Public
Administration. He had a passion for public service and enjoyed a fulfilling career with Miami-Dade County
government through many capacities. Prior to his retirement in 2005, he was the Assistant Property
Appraiser for the County. He was a dedicated professional who impacted many of his colleague’s lives in
extraordinary ways.
Herb lived a modest and honorable life. He was very aware of his own privilege in this world and was
deeply troubled by social injustices that negatively affected others. Herb regularly mentored students at
Miami Southridge Senior High School, taught reading to inmates at the Florida State Prison, and served
numerous other organizations throughout his life. It wasn’t until 2005, where he found his philanthropic
home with Branches Florida City. Herb’s greatest impact had been at Branches where he served as a role
model to children and youth who needed guidance and support. Over the years, Herb helped 100s of
students with homework and nutrition and challenged their minds each day after school. He believed
that every child deserved a chance to succeed and experience self-respect and worth. Herb made such a
positive impact on so many young peoples’ lives that he was honored in 2017 by Branches with an award
named in his honor, the first recipient of the “Herbert C. Parlato Volunteer Award.” He felt at peace during
his time at Branches and he was forever grateful.
Herb is predeceased by his parents, Herbert and Marie Parlato and survived by daughter Lillian Parlato
Harmon (Jennifer), son Herbie Conde-Parlato (Eddie), grandchildren, Adrian and Alexander Harmon,
Andrew Zampella and Adam Conde-Parlato. Additionally, he is survived by sister, Joanne Parlato, niece
Kristine Reslen (Christian), his lifelong and closest friend Phil “Bud” Ward, and countless cousins, nieces,
friends, colleagues, and extended family.
Herb was a gentle soul who was selfless, funny, generous, kind and compassionate. He taught his children
and grandchildren to love people and not things. He will be greatly missed.
A celebration of Herb's life will take place at 11:30 am to 1:30 pm on April 22, 2023 at Branches Florida City located at 129 SW 5th Ave, Florida City, FL 33034. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Branches Florida City by visiting their website: https://branchesfl.networkforgood.com/