Marilynn Parsons

Marilynn J. Lewis Parsons, age 87, went to be with her Lord on May 27, 2022, with her family by her side. Marilynn was born on June 1,1934 to Rev. Alvin D. and Annabelle (Bedell) Richards. In her high school years, she lived in Flushing, MI and Unionville, MI. Marilynn graduated from Sebewaing High School in 1953. She married John T. Lewis at the Colling Church of the Nazarene on June 13, 1953. Marilynn and John lived in Caro, MI and raised 4 daughters and adopted a son from Seoul, Korea.

Marilynn taught her children to sing and the family toured Michigan singing at churches and Children’s events. The children sang at the Detroit Institute of Art for an audience of 2000 people. Marilynn was a member of the Colling Church of the Nazarene where she served as pianist, Sunday School Superintendent, Teacher, church decorator, wherever there was a need, Marilynn was there to help. Several times Marilynn sat with children and adults in hospital rooms during the midnight hours so the family could go home to sleep. Marilynn didn’t know a stranger – she was a friend to all.

Besides singing and the church, Marilynn and John loved to travel to all 50 states, white water rafting and cruising on Cruise lines to Columbia, and the Caribbean. They were part of the Christian Motorcycle Association and the Tuscola Holiness Association where they were key members.

After the death of John in 2000, Marilynn filled her days being a school para-pro at Caro Middle School for several years. The students and staff liked Marilynn for her smiles, hugs and help and her love of jewelry.

On January 20, 2007, Marilynn married her high school boyfriend from Flushing, Paul E. Parsons, at the Colling Church of the Nazarene. She moved from Caro to Traverse City. She was not a stranger in a new town for long! Marilynn was involved in Topps, Bingo, and many activities at Bay View Wesleyan Church.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband of 15 years, Paul Parsons, Daughters: Tracy (Dale) Wimer, Pam (Randy)Howard, Cindy (Barry) Lee, Kandi (Will) Cousins; Stepchildren that she adored: Mike (Judie) Parsons, Greg (Debbie) Parsons. Grandchildren, Jill (Patrick) Stasiak, Julie (Jon) Kurzer, Megan (Ty) Morris, Nikki (Troy) Smith, Katie Wimer, Christen (Jamison) Couch, Tori Lee, Cody Cousins, Payton (Emily) Cousins. Alyssa (Matt) Disher, Andew (Megan) Parsons. Great Grandchildren: Crystal and Jack, Jackson, Logan and Prudence, and Anneliese. Sisters in law: Phyliss Richards, Ruth Likens, Ellen (Jim) Guilds, Vi Martin. Brothers in law: Ron Lewis, Doug Parsons. Several Nieces and Nephews.

Marilynn was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, John Lewis, siblings: Maynard and Laura Richards, Mert Richards, Son, Dennis Lewis.

Special Thanks to our cousin, Kathy Prich, for helping us and Mom in an extraordinary way!

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life service will be held at Bay View Wesleyan Church in Traverse City on Saturday July 9, at 3:00 pm with refreshments afterward.

An informal open house style Celebration of life will be held at the Colling Nazarene Church fellowship hall on Sunday, July 10 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm with cake and coffee.

Memorials can be given to Munson Healthcare Hospice at 450 Brooks Street, Traverse City 49684 or Bay View Wesleyan Church at 720 Wayne Street, Traverse City, 49684.

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