Gerald Lee “Gerry” Parsons

Gerald Lee “Gerry” Parsons, 94, died Aug. 17, 2016, peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family. His final words were “I love you, hon.”

Born June 17, 1922 in Hatfield, Missouri, his parents Sylvia and Orville Parsons instilled in him a passion for life, love of nature, respect for all people, a great sense of humor and values of fairness, honesty, integrity and compassion that he carried throughout his life. He loved and treasured his friends and adored his family.

Gerald married his childhood sweetheart Roberta Richardson, and they had a 65-year-long love affair — the kind of love that people write poetry and music about. Together they provided a marriage blueprint for the relationship we all hope for, but may be too human to achieve.

Gerald fulfilled his childhood dream of flying by serving his country during World War II as a Navy pilot. He became an aeronautical engineer, a rocket scientist. He was key in development of the anti-ballistic missile that is used all over the world for defense. He was a pioneer in the missile and space industry. His job moved the family all over America and around the world.

Gerald and his family had a passion for travel. He was always up for any adventure. Always!

In spite of many admirable accomplishments in his life, he remained humble, he saw himself as a Missouri farm boy. Throughout his life he continued to own and operate a farm in Missouri near his childhood home.

He will be buried in Missouri with his beloved wife. He was known for his loyal friendship, a ready smile, positive approach to everything, universal kindness, joy for life, a great laugh — he loved ice cream, hummingbirds, good views, boats, old cars, golf, his pecan trees, gardening, woodworking, saltines and soup, and more ice cream. He enjoyed a long and wonderful life, he will be profoundly missed by his two daughters, Barbara Gallagher (Mike Gallagher) and Sandra Thompson; his adoring grandchildren, Sean Gallagher (Roxann), Ryanne Tezanos (Jose), Meghan Thompson (Stephen Bassett), and twins Caroline Thompson and Robert Thompson. He cherished his great-grandchildren, Lovey and Elliot Gallagher, Riley and Michael Tezanos and Liam and Annabelle Bassett. Gerald was a gentleman and a gentle man.

Arrangements entrusted to Whitney and Murphy Funeral Home.