Robert Arthur Parsons

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Robert A. “Bob” Parsons (Alexandria, VA), who passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 1, 2023, at the age of 85. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Bob was born in Nashville, TN, on November 7, 1937, the middle of three children. After graduating high school in 1957 he enlisted in the Army and served as a reservist until 1963.

He moved to New York where he attended nursing school at Manhattan State and obtained his RN. Over the next decade he went on to pursue additional education using his GI Bill while also working as a X-Ray technician and nurse, often taking classes during the day and working at night. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1972 and a Master of Science in Community Health from Long Island University in 1974.

Bob spent the majority of his career in the U.S. Public Health Service, where he served for 26 years. He was commissioned in 1975 and retired at the rank of Commander in 2002. He was stationed at various Public Health hospitals including The Marine Hospital in New York, National Institutes of Health in Maryland and St. Elizabeth's in Washington, DC. He was deployed in the aftermath of several natural disasters to serve in mobile medical units including hurricane relief in the Virgin Islands and Florida.

His retirement was filled with loved ones as he continued his lifelong dedication to his family. Bob and Peggy spent many years helping to care for their grandchildren as they grew up. Bob was a devoted grandfather, shuttling kids to and from school and activities and providing a constant supply of treats and snacks along the way.

An avid fly-fisherman, Bob spent many days on the Shenandoah River and at Yellow Breeches Creek in Pennsylvania. He was a member of Trout Unlimited for many years and would share his love of fly fishing with all who would listen. He was an active volunteer with Project Healing Waters which serves wounded military service members and disabled veterans through camaraderie, connectedness, and fly fishing. He also kept active playing tennis as a member of the Mount Vernon Tennis club.

Bob enjoyed Elvis Presley, any mystery book he could get his hands on, his grandkids, and the outdoors. He loved fiercely, laughed easily, and will be remembered for his love of food, family and friends. Bob is survived by his wife Marguerite “Peggy” Parsons, son Jason Parsons (Ann Marie), daughter Michele T. Parsons Adamson (Andrew), his sister Patricia Woodall, and grandchildren Grant, Jack, Ava, and Tara.

In lieu of flowers, his family kindly requests donations be made to the following organizations in Bob’s memory. He actively supported these organizations throughout his life.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Wounded Warrior Project

Healing Waters Project

A Celebration of Life will be held at Aldersgate Methodist Church on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 2:30 pm. There will be a reception immediately following the service.

Aldersgate Methodist Church

1301 Collingwood Road

Alexandria, VA 22308