John Philip Parsley

January 16, 1957 ~ August 14, 2024 (age 67)

John Philip Parsley, a man who could fix anything even a broken heart,
was set free on August 14, 2024, at the age of 67. John, the cherished
son of the late Calloway and Nadine Little Parsley, and born January
16th, 1957, of the late Bill and Dove Little. John’s life was a
testament of Calloway and Nadine’s dedication and joy found in family
and simple pleasures.

A 1975 graduated from Paul G. Blazer High School in Ashland, Kentucky,
John’s work and skills with his hands was not just a job but a
calling. He poured his heart into his work. John was the embodiment of
the phrase, “if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in
your life,” especially when that work involved tinkering along side
his son, Mike.

John, known for his selfless love and hands that were as handy as a
pocket on a tee shirt. He spent his years working and working hard. For
nearly a decade he was employed at Tribute Contracting. His
tireless efforts and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on
all who had the privilege of working alongside of him.

His life was rich with the bonds of family. An adored husband, John
shared 48 years of marriage with his wife, Ann Thompson Parsley.
Together, they raised a family that became John’s pride and joy, a
son, Mike Parsley (Shannon), and a daughter, Christina
Parsley-Wamsley(Scott). The title of 'papaw' was one John wore like a
badge of honor, and he was the “coolest” to his grandkids, Alannah,
Caden, Parker, Pierce, Bella, and Piper, and Divya, the great-grandkid
who all added an extra sparkle to his eye.

John loved adventure. When he had an idea for a trip or a new “toy”,
Ann would always make it happen flawlessly down to every detail and
always the
best of it. John’s new toys did lead to countless hours of camping,
vacationing and just simple rides around the neighborhood on golf cart
with Ann by his side. When John wasn’t working or on an adventure, you
could find them at home, John on the hearth with a cold Mountain Dew
with Ann close by.

John's son, Mike, not only inherited his father's name but also his love
for working hard. John and Mike spent many years working along side each
other. Their selfless nature meant they were always first to offer help.
Aside from working together, Mike and John spent many miles on their
Harleys from Myrtle Beach to Daytona. Mike proudly is a carbon copy of
his dad and will continue John’s legacy with their family values.

John’s daughter, Christina, will forever cherish the memories of her
father and his endless patience. Christina could always call on him for
anything, and without a doubt he would prioritize her requests. Keeping
her from being snowed in, assembling furniture, or cooking dinner
together to just name a few. Most recently, their favorite past time was
boating with the kids.

John’s twin brother, Jim Parsley (alongside his wife Carol), could
easily be mistaken for John in a dimly lit room,—John and Jim shared
an unbreakable bond through no contest. There is rarely one without the
other, the Parsley Twins sure left their mark on their family and
friends together.

John never missed an opportunity to bask in the joy of his family's
achievements, whether it was cheering on his grandchildren at their
sporting events or celebrating their accomplishments.

His sisters, Sandra Shannon, Anita Hall (with Robert), and Jane Layman
(alongside Richard), and his brothers, Larry Parsley, Randy Little (with
Bernice), and Ray Little (with Debbie), are grounded in shares memories.
His life was also rich with nieces and nephews, each of whom held a
special place in his heart. John is preceded in death by Gary Little,
Lowell Little, Gene Little, Billy Little, and his sisters Dorris Ann
Shannon, Paul Little, Ronnie Little, and Judy Patton

Let us honor John Philip Parsley by living as he lived: with hands ready
to serve, hearts ready to love, and spirits that find happiness in the
everyday. His journey on earth may have concluded, but the path he has
charted for us remains bright with his memory, guiding us toward a life
well-lived, just as he so beautifully demonstrated.

Memorial services will be held 6:00 P.M. Saturday, August 17, 2024 at the Steen Funeral Home, 13th Street Chapel by Mike Compliment officiating. The family will receive friends from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Shriners Children’s Hospital, 110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, KY 40508


To share a memory of John or extend a condolence to his family, please visit: steenfuneralhome.com.