John M. Parsons

On January 21, 2020, John M. Parsons, 94, passed away at home while in hospice care and with his family by his side. He was born the fourth of five children to the late John H. and Vera Mae Parsons in Fulton, NY. Through hard work, John earned his High School Diploma at the age of 16. He served in the Army Air Forces at age 17 during World War II as an Aviation Mechanic. Following the War, he began working for General Electric (GE) in New York as a Junior Engineer, where he met the love of his life and who also worked at GE, and married Elizabeth Ann Ireland (Betty) on her birthday in 1958. The family transferred from Syracuse in 1966 and settled in the Churchland area of Portsmouth. John’s career was on the climb as he was recognized for his skills where he earned accolades for multiple Engineering Design Patents during his career at GE. He became a member of Centenary United Methodist Church where he enjoyed the 9:45 contemporary service with his wife and daughters for many years. John was an avid bowler, golfer, and huge NASCAR fan. He was also active with his wife Betty in the Churchland Senior Club and participated with her in PAGO (Portsmouth Area Golden Olympics) where they earned countless medals, traveled abroad, made friends, and created beautiful long lasting memories. John was predeceased by his wife Betty of almost 51 years and ultimately outlived all of his siblings. John is survived by his five children, and was proud they are all college graduates: Nancy Wilson of Middletown, MD; Betsy Parsons of Portsmouth; Jack Parsons and wife Debbie of Chesapeake; Susie Knotts and husband Don of Portsmouth; Sharon Stuhmer of Chesapeake; nine grandchildren: Holly, Austin, Kristin, Lexi, Kyle, Evan, Sarah, David and Robert; great-granddaughter Lina; brother-in-law Lee Ireland and wife Judy; faithful and devoted nephew Bob Grace and wife Vicki (who wrote and mailed 5-8 letters weekly for several years), as well as many other nieces and nephews. The family will greet friends from 4:30–5:30 pm, Sunday, January 26, 2020, at Loving Funeral Home, Churchland Chapel. There will be a celebration of his life on Monday, January 27, 3:00 pm, at Centenary United Methodist Church on Cedar Lane in Portsmouth. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Edmarc Hospice for Children at edmarc.org or by calling 757-967-9251. John was so thankful to be blessed with five healthy children and wanted to bless others. The family would like to thank everyone for the love, prayers, and support.