On Thursday, September 18, 2025, James Douglas (Doug) Parson of Harrisburg was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as well as his faithful canine companions who have previously crossed the rainbow bridge; Bull, Casey, Fado, Glock, Sage, Polo, Peanut, Penny, Pepper, and Snickers.
Doug was born on November 19, 1950, to James Stanley and Audrey Vickers. A proud graduate of William Penn High School (Class of 1968), Doug was a standout athlete, excelling in wrestling and football. He continued both his academic and athletic pursuits at Mansfield State University, where he earned a B.S. in Secondary Education while playing football, wrestling, and serving as President and Rush Chairman of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.
Doug dedicated 30 years of service to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania before following his true calling: dog training. As the owner of GutHunds Dog Training in Hershey, Doug touched countless lives, both human and canine. His deep knowledge and passion for dogs led him to roles as a trainer for PetSmart, Super Petz and as a faculty member of the Pennsylvania Bar Institute where he lectured on dog aggression, and testified as an expert witness in numerous dog bite cases. Doug also gave generously of his time and talents to canine rescue organizations across Pennsylvania by fostering, adopting, and teaching whenever possible.
A man of deep faith, Doug was a devoted member of Grace United Methodist Church in Hummelstown, where he found joy and fellowship in prayer meetings, Bible study, and weekly Men's Breakfasts at the Soda Jerk.
Doug was also a loyal Penn State fan. You could often find him watching wrestling or sitting on the sofa beside his son Justin, cheering on Nittany Lion football with unwavering enthusiasm.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Patricia Mayberry, brother-in-law Edward
Mayberry, and a grandson Sua Migo.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy C. Parson; his sons, Joshua Matthew and Justin Michael (Raelynn); his cherished grandchildren, Cian Parson, Molly Parson, Drew Parson and Reed Parson; and his stepchildren, Paul Michael and Beth Michel. He is also survived by several nephews and an amazing niece, Jill Hawk.
Doug will be remembered for his unwavering love for dogs, his dedication to training and helping others, his infectious spirit, his strong faith and great sense of humor.
If you are attending the service we are asking you to not dress up as Doug would never have wanted you to dress up for him. Please wear a GutHunds shirt, a dog related shirt, Penn State or Steelers shirt. Also, if you were lucky enough to train with the Big Dog, please bring a picture of your dog to place in the casket with Doug. Services will be held at 3:00 PM Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Grace United Methodist Church, 433 E. Main St., Hummelstown. A viewing will be from 1:00 PM Sunday until the time of the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Char-Will Kennels or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, both causes close to Doug’s heart.
The family would like to thank the Palliative Team at Holy Spirit Hospital for their care and compassion for my husband and our father during this difficult time.
