Edward Eldridge Parsons

In the presence of his wife and family, Edward Eldridge Parsons (also known as Big Ed, Spike, Preacher, and most importantly Pops, Putz and PawPaw) of Salem, Virginia concluded a life well lived on July 31, 2024. While he will be greatly missed and remembered always, we have comfort in knowing we will see him again in heaven one day.

Born on February 25, 1947, Ed grew up in Welch, West Virginia and graduated from Welch High School. It is there that he met the love of his life, Linda. They shared endless adventures and a great love together for 55 years.

He was a member of North Roanoke Baptist Church. A former member of the Roanoke Life Saving Crew, Ed dedicated many years of his professional life to Carilion Clinic, where he retired after a distinguished career marked by dedication and compassion.

Ed is preceded in death by his parents, Edward Linford Parsons and Helen Akers Atwell; his infant daughter Stephanie Lynne Parsons; his brother Mike Parsons; his in-laws BB and Velma Harman; his brother-in-law Thomas Harman; and numerous other family members who we know were there to welcome him at heaven’s gate.

Ed is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his daughter Aimee Parsons Arias; his son Todd Parsons and daughter-in-love Julie Parsons; his grandchildren Macie Parsons, Zack Arias, and Marley Parsons; his sister Kay Miller and her husband Vernon Miller; his sister-in-laws Martha Harman, Carol Andrews, DJ Harman, Uygonda Harman, and Doris Parsons; his brother-in-law Spunky Harman; and countless other family and friends.

He will always be remembered for his unwavering faith in God, his love of family and dear friends, and his appreciation of good food – especially one of Linda’s egg sandwiches. His kindness and strength will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of this wonderful man will be held Monday, August 5, 2024 at 3 p.m. at Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creel Road Chapel with Pastors Mike Palmer and Daniel Palmer officiating. The family will receive friends Monday, August 5, 2024 from 1-3 p.m. at Simpson Funeral Home.  While flowers are appreciated, please also consider making a donation to the North Roanoke Baptist Church Building Fund in Ed's memory.

Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Chapel. (540)366-0707.