Lewis C. PARSONS

HAMPTON - Lewis Carter Parsons, 84, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009 at his home surrounded by those who loved him.
He was born in Newport News and attended Hampton High School. Lewis proudly served his country in the Army during WW II and was awarded the Bronze Star. Upon his return from the war, he began his career in the automobile business, which continued for over 50 years. He was the owner and operator of Thompson Ford for 25 years, in Hampton. His commitment to his business led him to a dedication to the community. He was a member of Hampton Baptist Church, where he served as a life deacon and taught Sunday school. He was an active and loyal member of the Hampton Rotary Club, where he held perfect attendance until his first stroke. He was honored with a Paul Harris Fellow by his club and recently attended his last dinner with them, enjoying his fellow Rotarians. Lewis entertained us with his dry humor and his quick wit, even after his fifth stroke. He will be remembered for his positive attitude, loving quiet manner and his extreme attention to detail. Lewis never spoke a harsh word to anyone, he truly embodied the Christian walk, not just the talk.
Lewis was preceded in death by his first wife of 54 years, Margaret Emma Hazelwood; parents, Ethel Henglon Burns and Lewis "Pete" Carter Parsons; and his two sisters, Edna June and Gloria Lee.
He is survived by his children, Robert Lewis Parsons, Peggy Ann Jackson, Becky Sue Marshall and Cynthia Elizabeth Kane, and their spouses; four grandchildren, Chad Jackson, Brant Jackson, James Kane and Mary Kay Gonya; and one great-grandchild, Carter Gonya. Later in life, Lewis met and married Elizabeth Boyd and they moved into their home at the Arbors at Port Warwick. Lewis is also survived by her children, John W. Boyd Jr. (Marie), Belinda B. Neff (John); three granddaughters, Kristina M. Waggener, Elizabeth "Beth" A. Boyd, and Meredith Lea Boyd.
The family would like to thank Kimberly Hurley and Crystal Watson, for the loving and professional care given to Lewis in the last months of his life; Riverside Hospital Hospice and The Arbors at Port Warwick, for their constant support of Lewis and Elizabeth, during this difficult time.
The family will receive family and friends from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, 2009, at the funeral home. A celebration of Lewis' life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, at Hampton Baptist Church, officiated by the Rev. Dr. Charles R. Smith and the Rev. Dr. Chester Brown. Interment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park.
Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.
Memorial contributions may be made in Lewis' name to the Good Samaritan Fund, P.O. Box 2861, Newport News, VA 23606.
Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, in Hampton. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.