Kelly Parsons Obituary


PARSONS, Kelly Born in Victoria, BC, on May 8, 1958, and died at Victoria Hospice on December 24, 2008, with her son, John, at her side. Kelly attended school on southern Vancouver Island, and all through her teenage years her horse, April, was an important part of her life (she later said, Animals bring so much joy and acceptance into our lives"). Kelly attended the University of Victoria, publishing in the field of medieval manuscripts and spirituality. Her poetry appeared in various literary journals and anthologies. In September 2008, her first full-length poetry book, I WILL ASK FOR BIRDS, was published by Sono Nis Press and received glowing reviews. A student of mindfulness practice, Kelly lived her life according to its basic precepts. Her writing reflected her deep connection to nature and the poignant specificity of the physical world. Throughout the years of her illness, Kelly modelled grace, gentleness, and compassion for herself and all those around her. She remained fully engaged in her life, her art, and her poetry up to the very end. She treasured every precious moment with her beloved grandchildren. Kelly leaves behind her loving son and daughter-in law, John and Alana Turner, and her cherished grandchildren, Nicholas and Maya; her father Harvey Parsons and stepmother Jayne; her brother Darin; Uncle John Hammargren; and numerous other family members and friends. She was very much loved by her fellow writers. 519900

Published by The Times Colonist from Jan. 6 to Jan. 8, 2009.

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Memories and Condolences
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14 Entries

This time of year is always the most wonderful and yet the hardest. Loosing a mother, mother in-law &Grandma in Christmas Eve was so challenging. There isn't a day that goes by that we don't wish you were here with us mom! We think about you always, talk to the kids about you often and cherish the memories we have. Your pictures are all around the house, including my favourite, the one of you with your horse April,dog and cat. Maya most definitely takes after her Grandma in her love for horses as she is now an avid rider also.Nicholas is a caring soul who is very much the thinker part of you and little Ryan who sadly never had the joy of meeting you is the little spitfire of the bunch and the one you'd let get away with anything if you were here as there is no way you would be able to resist his smile. I am thankful now more than ever for the books you wrote and that were dedicated to you. The children read them often and they all hold a special place in all of our hearts. We'll save a seat for you at the table this year mom so you can join us for Christmas dinner.

Alana Turner

December 17, 2018

I just picked up Threshold: six women, six poets, edited by Rona Murray, for the first time in years and years. I've lived out of the country for much of the past 15 years and became curious to know where my fellow poets have gone. I am so sad to learn this news a full decade after Kelly's death. She was lovely, really lovely, and her words were especially lovely. I was so proud to be counted as a peer to Kelly by Rona. I'm so sorry Kelly's family for her loss. I'm just so sad that we lost someone so fine far too soon.

Suzanne Steele

Acquaintance

September 24, 2018

Kelly, you continue to be an inspiration to poets everywhere. Just one instance of this is that there is now a new book dedicated to you. It is called FOR KELLY, WITH LOVE, POEMS ON THE ABSTRACTS OF CARLE HESSAY (Treeline, 2014). In it your fellow poets write on some of the copies of the small Hessay abstracts you were given for your birthday. Each poem is accompanied by an abstract. Poets include: Karen Ballinger, bill bissett, Dorothy Field, Patrick Friesen, Corinna Gilliland, Judith Heron, Eve Joseph, Linda Olson, Barbara Colebrook Peace, Linda Rogers, Carol Ann Sokoloff, Gray Sutherland, Leonard A. Woods, Patricia Young, Terence Young, and Gail Whitter. A series of events will accompany the launch held at the new Templed Mind Studio Gallery at 2006 Fernwood Road. It is your sort of place. Events begin on Wednesday, March 5 at 7 p.m., and continue on Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Professor Kathryn Kerby-Fulton will be coming from the University of Notre Dame to give a special talk on: "Remembering Kelly Parsons: Medievalist, Buddhist, and Poet" on that Sunday afternoon. You continue to live in our minds, spirits, and hearts.

February 11, 2014

I have searched for years for my long lost friend...You were my bridesmaid in Utah, we were school friends and lived just down the street...I miss our horseback rides together...our secrets, our time...you will never be forgotten!!
Laura Wight (Lambert)

February 28, 2012

Kelly
There is an enduring place in my heart for you my friend – for our travels – for our time together – for our transitions in life – and for the treasures stored deep in my memories. Until we meet again - I will always "wear pomegranate" for you.
With Love.
Kim

Kim Winger (Davidson)

January 24, 2009

Harvey, Jayne, John, Alana, Nicholas and Maya
Our condolences to the family as you grieve your loss.
May your sorrow ease a little as you celebrate a life that was well lived and hold close in your heart cherished memories of happy times shared.

Jim and Debbie Pachkowski

January 8, 2009

Though it has been many years since I have seen you, I still remember the fun school years. Your laughter, and joy always brightened the days.

Colleen Revesz (nee Craigie)

January 8, 2009

Kelly was one of the kindest people I have ever met, and always put other people first. The world lost one of it's brightest stars on Christmas Eve...We love you Kelly!

Love, Lyndsay, Chris and Kaitlyn

Lyndsay Pearce

January 7, 2009

Kelly and I were great friends in elementary school. I have fond and funny memories of her and our antics together. She was a gentle, compassionate and brave child and it sounds like that's the kind of woman she grew up to be also. My condolences to her family.

Tammie Tyler (Bradley)

January 7, 2009

You will always be in my heart and memories Kelly. You were there when as my Maid-of-honor when I got married, and you were there to let me squeeze your poor little hand when your first Nephew Kyle Parsons was born.
I love and will miss you dearly my Sister and friend.
Shelley Davies Parsons Coburn

Shelley Coburn

January 7, 2009

Through all the years
Through all the tears
Through all the joy and laughter
One bell rings strong
One bell rings clear
One bell rings ever after

You will be missed Kelly, and remembered with love.

Sharryl

January 6, 2009

We could not have asked for a more loving understanding Grandmother for our children. It is very hard to think of her not being here to see them grow up. Kelly loved our son Nicholas (age 2 ) so very much and was always sure to let him know that. Our 3 month old daughter Maya did not get to know her Grandma as much but we will be sure to always talk about "Grandma" to the kids and how much she loved them.

You are missed very much Mom!

Love always
John,Alana, Nicholas and Maya
xoxoxo

Alana Turner

January 6, 2009

Remembering Kelly, I find myself thinking often of her own words, in her poem "Words for My Hands," where she says "Their first words are / permit me to give." Those words are the essence of Kelly. What she gave me will be with me always.

Barbara Colebrook Peace

January 6, 2009

January 6, 2009

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