David Stephen Parsons

David Stephen Parsons, AKA “Super Dave” passed away on January 18, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. Though taken too soon, his legacy will live on through the impact he had on his wife, his family, and the community in which he lived.

David was born in Liverpool, England on October 5, 1958 and grew up in Caistor, England with his mother, sister, and brother. He moved to the United States at the age of 21 in search of opportunity and adventure. His journey landed him in Westlake, LA where he attended and later graduated from McNeese State University. It was during this time that he met the love of his life – Michelle. Little did either of them know that this union would go on to last an incredible 33 years and produce 3 beautiful sons who would marry amazing women and give them 4 lovely grandchildren. Until the end of his life he showed his wife love, kindness, and respect. They did everything together. They were absolute best friends.

To his sons, David was a friend, a mentor, a support system and an advocate.  He protected them with his life and they meant the world to him.  He was proud of their accomplishments, and he made it a point to stay involved in their daily lives. When they married he gained 3 daughters whom he loved dearly, protected and frequently indulged.  As far as the grandchildren, they had him wrapped around his little finger. He was the best “Doodah”.

David had a charming and charismatic personality.  His British humor was sometimes misunderstood but was always meant in good fun.  He loved to joke and cut up and he had a bit of a mischief in his eyes.  His dynamic, fun loving, high spirited personality added to the quality of the lives of the people he touched.  He spread happiness to those around him and he will be dearly missed.

David was a very hard worker with an exemplary work ethic. He always worked more than one job at a time.  He was the Sexton at St. Michael’s and All Angels Episcopal Church for more than 20 years and he served as a Youth Director for 10 years.  David worked for the District Attorney’s Office in Calcasieu Parish for more than 23 years in the pre-trial diversion program.  He served on the board of directors for PIPS (Professionals in Pre-Trial Services) for more than 10 years and throughout his professional career he showed a passion for helping individuals turn their lives around.  He believed in second chances and was determined to help others reach their potential by developing better coping skills and believing in themselves.  He was the program coordinator and founder of a unique and innovative teambuilding program called C.A.D.E.T (Changing Attitudes and Decisions through Experiential Training). In his eyes this was one of his greatest professional accomplishments.  Through C.A.D.E.T, he changed the lives of countless individuals.  He was a compassionate man and always took time to help those in need. He was a “sucker for the underdog.”

David was a very private person in many ways, but to his family – he was “all in”. There were many things that he showed only to them – and these are the things they will cherish the most. David lived a  life of service, devoted to his wife, his children, his church and his community.  He was frequently known as a “behind the scenes” kind of man and life with him was never dull. Many people knew him by his quirky, mischievous, and loving personality. He always danced to the “beat of his own drum.”  Whether you needed help with vehicle problems or a meal from McDonald’s – he was the kind of man that took joy in helping others. He was a true Good Samaritan.

Those left to cherish his memory are his devoted and loving wife of 33 years, Michelle Parsons of Sulphur; his sons, Alex Parsons (Tara) of Orange, TX, Nicholas Parsons (Alicia) of Sulphur, and Christian Parsons (Jessica) also of Sulphur; his siblings, Clare South of England and John Parsons of Australia; four grandchildren who affectionately called him “Doodah”, Gabriel, Alara, Mykala, and Amelia Parsons and numerous nieces and nephews throughout the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia.  He also leaves behind his beloved orange tabby cats which he nurtured and loved.

He was preceded in death by his mother.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at University Baptist Church under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home.  Father Seth Donald will officiate.  Inurnment will take place at St. Michael and All Angels columbarium at a later date.  A gathering of family and friends will begin at University Baptist Church on Monday from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM and will continue Tuesday from 12:00 PM until the start of the service.