To be published in the Stamford Advocate Friday August 23, 2013.
Long time Stamford, CT resident Harry L. Parson II, 85, died at his home August 19, 2013.
Services will be held Saturday August 24, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home. 2900 Summer Street, Stamford, CT 06905-4304.
Harry L. Parson II was born July 15, 1928 to the union of Harry L. Parson and Irene Young in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was a graduate of Talladega College in Alabama. After college he joined the Army and earned the rank of Lieutenant during his four years of service. After the military he graduated from Northwestern University in Chicago and received his MBA.
His first marriage produced two children: Eve and Harry III. On August 31, 1969 he married Joyce J. (JJ) Moore. They were married for 43 years until his passing.
Harry Parson started his long work career in Chicago at American Airlines in 1955. He quickly worked his way through five promotions to become American Airlines’ first African American Flight Reservationist. Years later he would leave American and accept a position as a Director of Marketing & Advertising for Time Magazine in Manhattan. After Time Magazine he moved on to Equitable Life where he was a Vice President of Advertising.
Harry retired from Equitable Life but remained extremely active in politics and education:
• City of Stamford Zoning - Board Member;
• Chairman – Stamford Police Foundation;
• City of Stamford Planning - Board Member;
• State Street Debating Society – Member;
• Democrat – City Committee – Member;
• Talladega College – Former Board Member;
• Former President – NAACP Stamford Charter; and
• Visiting Professor - Loyola University in New Orleans and at Talladega College in Alabama.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, JJ Parson, daughter Eve Cynthia Parson, son Harry L. Parson III, (Kristal), grandsons Darryl M. Phillips, Cole A. Philips and a host of friends and family.
Condolences may be sent to 29 Trailing Rock Lane, Stamford, CT 06903 or online at www.leopgallagherstamford.com.
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