Phillis Parsons, a resident of McKinney, Texas, passed away on December 13, 2023, at the age of 80. She was born on September 4, 1943, in Sweetwater, Texas, to parents Lloyd Barnes and Bertha (Ueckert) Barnes. Phillis was an accomplished individual who dedicated her life to education. She graduated from Clyde High School in Clyde, Texas, in 1961 and went on to attain a bachelor's degree in education from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. Her passion for learning led her to pursue a master's degree in special education from Tarleton University in Stephenville, Texas.
In 1964, Phillis married the late Earl Wayne Parsons, II. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. Their meeting in 8th grade in Clyde sparked a love that would last through both their lifetimes.
Throughout her professional career, Phillis served as a teacher, starting in 1979. Her expertise and commitment to her students allowed her to excel in her role, and she eventually became a director of Special Education from 1989 to 2006, when she decided to retire. Her dedication to education extended beyond her work as a teacher. Phillis was an active member of her community and participated in various organizations. She was a proud member of the Quilt Guilt Club of Chico and the Bridgeport Lions Club. Also, she generously volunteered her time and resources to organizations such as the Special Olympics, Adult Education, and the Tea Association.
Phillis had a zest for life. She enjoyed traveling, taking every opportunity to explore new destinations and experience different cultures. Her creativity shone through in her quilting, as she diligently collected materials and created beautiful works of art. Phillis was also known for her culinary skills and loved cooking for her loved ones, bringing them together with delicious meals and fun memories.
Above all, Phillis treasured spending time with her family. Her love and dedication to her family were evident in every meal she prepared, every conversation she engaged in, and every embrace she shared. In addition to her accomplishments and hobbies, Phillis was a faithful member of First Baptist McKinney. Her faith was an essential aspect of her life, providing her with guidance and strength throughout her journey.
During her time with us, Phillis touched the lives of countless individuals with her kindness, compassion, and dedication. Her loving presence will deeply be missed by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Phillis will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and her memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all who were lucky enough to know her.
She is survived by her daughters, Traci Parsons of Aledo, Texas, Lorrie Galliher and husband, Dave of Livingston, Texas, and Peggy Parsons of McKinney, Texas; nine grandchildren, Phillip, Michaela, Savanna, Montana, Cheyenne, Courtney, Skylar, Jacob, and Dakota; brothers, Gary Barnes of Decatur, Texas and David Walker and wife, Laurie of Princeton, Texas; and numerous other loving family members and friends.
Phillis was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Wayne Parsons II; parents, Lloyd and Bertha Barnes; son, Earl Wayne Parsons, III; grandchild, Elizabeth Parsons; great grandchild, Lilly Sue Parsons; sisters, Shirley Tucker, Nelda Hobbs, and Sandra Barnes; and brother, William “Sonny” Barnes.
Two visitations and funeral services will be held to accommodate family and friends.
The family will receive friends during two different visitations. The first on Tuesday afternoon from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home, and the second, on Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
The first funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. The service will also be live streamed at TJMfuneral.com on Phillis’ obituary page by clicking on the following link: https://celebrationoflife.tv/blog/phillis-parsons. After the service, the recorded live stream will be available for viewing at the same link location.
A second funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon, Saturday, December 30, 2023 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. The service will also be live streamed at TJMfuneral.com on Phillis’ obituary page by clicking on the following link: https://celebrationoflife.tv/blog/phillis-parsons-2. After the service, the recorded live stream will be available for viewing at the same link location. Following the Saturday service, Phillis will be laid to rest at Dido Cemetery in Fort Worth, Texas.