In Loving Memory of

James Thomas Parsons

August 1, 1944 - July 11, 2025

James Thomas Parsons went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, July 11, 2025. Born in Mesa, Arizona to Thomas Raymond Parsons and Ethel Eileen Teakell, Jim was one of nine brothers and sisters. From the age of 11, Jim was raised by Claude and Beulah Riddle alongside their sons, Ronald, Revel, and Ray in Stamping Grounds, Kentucky.

In July 1964, Jim enlisted in the United States Army. By late November 1965, Jim and members of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry had arrived in the Ia Drang Valley to conduct clean-up operations. The battle marked the first major clash between U.S. and North Vietnamese forces. Jim returned to U.S soil from Vietnam in July 1966. He was honorably discharged in July of 1970.

Jim graduated from the Police Academy and served on the Albuquerque Police Department. He was employed by Rust Tractor and retired from BNSF Railroad in 2004.

In 1977, Jim believed on the Lord Jesus and was saved at Rio Grande Baptist Church. On this day he was made new in Christ and his life was eternally transformed. He served faithfully at Rio Grande and other Baptist churches for the remainder of his life in bus ministry, AWANA, church league softball teams, maintenance, mechanic work, and anywhere he was needed. In his free time Jim enjoyed mechanic work, daily prayer, and studying his King James Bible. He played and traveled with many Senior Softball teams from 2003 to 2012. He played tournaments across the country and was on the winning team for the Tournament of Champions in 2010.

Jim is survived by his wife of 22 years, Claire. He also leaves behind five children from previous marriages, Larry (Leslie), LeAnn (Brody), Buddy (Amy), Heidi  (Donnie), Jason (Nikki), and a step-son, Colin; 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

The Parsons family would like to thank the Community Living Center Hospice team for their kindness and care in Jim's home-going.

The graveside service will be held at the Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 N. Guadalupe St, Santa Fe, NM, on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 9:30 am with US Army Honors. Following the burial service, the Celebration of Jim's life will be held at the American Legion Post 13, 1201 Legion NE. ABQ., NM. 87102, beginning at 12:00 noon.