Andy Parsons

Clarence Andrew Parsons, affectionately known as Andy, peacefully departed from this world on Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Sublimity, Oregon, at the age of 94. He was born on February 3, 1930, in Enid, Oklahoma to Andrew Chester and Helen Beatrice (Koeppen) Parsons.

Andy's life was marked by distinguished service and remarkable adventures. He met Jean Beckette of Canby, Oregon, in Seaside, Oregon, on July 5th, 1956, while stationed at the U.S. Naval Station, Tongue Point, in Astoria, Oregon. Their whirlwind romance culminated in marriage on November 17, 1956, in a quaint chapel in Reno, Nevada.

A proud veteran, Andy dedicated two decades of his life to the United States Navy, completing five tours of duty, including service aboard the USS Colonial LSD-18 in 1968. Following his military career, Andy settled in Stayton, Oregon, where he served as a Boiler Operator for the Department of Corrections in Salem for 20 years, retiring in 1989. He was a member of VFW Post in Stayton, Oregon. He also was a member of the Salem RC air club where he would fly RC planes and was a member of the Albany Gun Club where he enjoyed shooting traps.

In retirement, Andy and Jean embarked on adventures across the United States, spending winters in Surprise, Arizona, at Happy Trails. They embraced life, relishing in square dancing, golfing, and the simple joys of companionship.

Andy had a passion for collecting automobiles and cherished moments spent with his family and friends. His family fondly remembers his enthusiasm for scratching lottery tickets and indulging in various hobbies, such as flying small-scale gas-powered airplanes and model railroading.

A devout Christian, Andy took pride in his faith and his family. He will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, and unwavering love for all those he encountered.

Preceding Andy in death were his parents, Helen and Chester Parsons, his brother Claude Parsons, and his sisters Margie and Opal. He is survived by his beloved wife and partner of 67 years, Jean Parsons of Sublimity, Oregon. Andy's memory will also be honored by his sons: Bob (Kathy) Parsons and Dave (Donna) Parsons, both of Stayton, Oregon. Additionally, he is survived by four grandchildren: Aaron (Cherie) Parsons of Aumsville, Shari (Patrick) Doherty of North Carolina, Thomas (Brooke) Parsons of Aumsville, and Jason (Ashlee) Parsons of Aumsville. Andy's legacy extends to ten great-grandchildren: Ian, Abby, Owen, Payton, Ally, Brinley, Bailey, Talon, Amelia, and Easton.

A viewing will be held on Friday, April 5th, from 4:00 to 6:30 at Weddle Funeral Service in Stayton, Oregon. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Saturday, May 18th, at 11:00 at Weddle Chapel, followed by a reception to honor Andy's memory.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer's Association in Clarence Andrew Parsons' name.

Andy's departure leaves a void in the lives of those who knew him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to have shared in his life's journey. May he rest in eternal peace. Andy leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will be cherished by his surviving family and friends.