John Randal Parsons

1949 - 2025

John Randal Parsons, age 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, March 30, 2025, at his residence.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Christ Methodist Church, Wilson Chapel, in Memphis, TN. Visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M.

Born on June 8, 1949, in Water Valley, Mississippi, John was the son of the late Oscar Thurman Parsons, Jr. and Mary Kathryn Buchanan Parsons. A graduate of Water Valley High School, he went on to earn a degree in Journalism and Advertising from the University of Mississippi. He began his career teaching Journalism at Northwest Mississippi Junior College before transitioning into banking. For over 30 years, he thrived as an investment banker with First Tennessee.

John's charismatic spirit lit up every room he entered. With a quick wit, a deep love for laughter, and a gift for storytelling, he was truly the "life of the party." His lifelong love of music led him to the stage as a lead singer in several rhythm and blues bands, including "Stone Cold" and "The Deltones." Among his most treasured experiences were the Sundays he spent singing and playing the Hammond organ during the contemporary worship service at Christ Methodist Church.

A devoted Ole Miss fan, John loved tailgating in the Grove and cheering on the Rebels. In quieter moments, he enjoyed golfing and reading works by C.S. Lewis and Dean Koontz. Above all, John will be remembered for his enduring love of music, his joyful personality, and his deep devotion to his family and friends. Every conversation with him ended with the words, "I love you."
John is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer Thornton Parsons of Memphis, TN; his brother, James Robert "Robby" Parsons (Bonnie) of Water Valley, MS; his daughters, Alison Parsons Jardine (Jason) of Santa Rosa, CA, and Melissa Parsons Vincent (Matthew) of Oxford, MS; and stepdaughters, Audrey Bledsoe Garrett of Santa Fe, NM, and Donna Grace Garrett of Eugene, OR. Known affectionately as "Grandy," he leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Gabe Jardine, Pippin Jardine, Eli Vincent, and Ari Vincent.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Richard Lynn Parsons, and his sister Laura Parsons Walker.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John's memory may be made to the Church Health Center, 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 142, Memphis, TN 38104, or to Levitt Shell, 1928 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104.