Rodger Lee Parsons, Sr.

Rodger Lee Parsons, Sr. (“Paw-Paw”)
June 26, 1949 – March 26, 2026

Rodger Lee Parsons, Sr., known affectionately to all as “Paw-Paw,” passed away on March 26, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy defined by an unwavering commitment to his family, a distinguished record of military service, and a career built on hard work and leadership.

A Foundation of Family
Rodger’s greatest source of pride was the life he built with his beloved wife, Emma Parsons. Married on October 17, 1981, their 44-year union was the cornerstone of his life. He was a man who found his deepest purpose in providing for Emma and taking care of his children: Rodger Jr., Tracey, Timothy, and Michelle.

He took immense joy in watching his children create their own families, welcoming their spouses and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren with an open heart. To Rodger, the best days were those spent together—especially during Christmas—or working alongside his family on a shared project. He was a constant, supportive presence, always keeping up with the milestones and daily lives of the grandchildren he adored.

Honor and Bravery in Service
A veteran of the United States Army, Rodger served from 1968 to 1971, including a 14-month deployment to Vietnam in 1970–1971. As a Sergeant (E5), he was a leader known for his reliability and strong conduct. Though he was modest regarding his time in the service, his decorations reflect a soldier who went far beyond expectations.

His military honors include:
•The Bronze Star Medal: Awarded for heroism or meritorious service in a combat zone.
•Army Commendation Medal: For noteworthy achievement and service beyond expectations.
•Army Good Conduct Medal: For honorable and disciplined service.
•Vietnam Service Medal & Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal: For service during the war and extended deployment.
•National Defense Service Medal.
•Sharpshooter & Marksman Badges: Recognizing his weapon qualification and technical proficiency.

A Career of Excellence
Following his military service, Rodger dedicated over 30 years to the newspaper industry. He served as the Pressroom Manager at The Erie Times. His professional life was marked by the same "lead-by-example" mentality he honed in the Army, earning the respect of his colleagues and the community.

Family Legacy
Rodger was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Phyllis Parsons; his sister, Annabelle Grose (Bob); and his brothers, Donald “Duck” Parsons Jr. (Bobbie) and Randy Parsons (Debbie).

He is survived by his wife, Emma Parsons, and a large, loving family:
•Sibling: Donna Velie (Tim)
•Children: Rodger Parsons, Jr. (Catherine), Tracey Parsons Weaver (Mike), Timothy Jones (Pam), and Michelle Morton.
•Grandchildren: Kylie Eades (Gage), Logan Parsons, Bailey Gonzales (Anthony), Hunter Parsons; Taylor Byram (Jonathan), Morgan Moore (Garrison), Zane Weaver; Aiden Jones, Devon Bradshaw (Mikayla), Jessica Lovern (Jonathan), Avery Bradshaw; Marissa Morton and Wyatt Morton.
•Great-Grandchildren: Sutton Jones, Nash and Grady (arriving in May) Byram, and Lorelei Lovern.
•Extended Family: Survived by a host of beloved brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces/nephews, great nieces/nephews, and cousins.

Celebration of Life
Family and friends are invited to gather and honor Rodger’s life:
•Date: April 18, 2026
•Time: 1:00 PM
•Location: Marmet First Baptist Church
•Address: 8716 MacCorkle Ave SE, Marmet, WV 25315

Following the service, lunch—Rodger's favorite meal—will be served as we continue to celebrate his memory together. 

In Lieu of Flowers
Rodger was a man who loved a project and believed in taking care of people. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by supporting the Gary Sinise Foundation in their mission to serve our nation’s veterans and their families: www.garysinisefoundation.org