Richard Allen Parsons, 75, of Lenoir, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 9, 2026.

Born in Caldwell County, North Carolina, Richard was the beloved son of the late Thomas R. Parsons and Eloise Hoover Parsons. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose life was marked by hard work, a love for the outdoors, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Richard began his career as the owner and operator of Service Master of Caldwell and Burke Counties. Later, he proudly continued his father's legacy by becoming the owner of City Services Cleaners. He was also a 1969 graduate of Lenoir High School and enjoyed getting together with his classmates.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Richard cherished time outdoors and with his family. His adventurous spirit and loving heart will be remembered always.

He is survived by his beloved partner, Joyce E. Carlton; daughter, Jennifer P. Smith (husband James); sons, Joseph A. Parsons (wife Sandra) and Jonathan A. Allen Parsons; grandchildren, Bethany Smith, Abagail Jean Smith, Zachary Elledge, Jessica Story, Christina Hall, and Joseph Parsons Jr.; great-grandchildren, Colton Hodge, Lillie, Joshua, Nevaeh, Hunter, Zane, Sage Story, Lacy, Carson Hall, Eli, Bella, and Savannah Parsons; brothers, David Parsons and Michael Parsons (wife Cynthia); sister, Martha Ann Gilbert (husband Larry); and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Amorem Hospice at www.amoremsupport.org/donate. Please note "In Memory of Richard Allen Parsons" with your donation.

A visitation will be held Monday, July 13, 2026 from 2:00 to 3:00 P.M. at Greer-McElveen Funeral Home in Lenoir, North Carolina.

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.