Richard H. Parsons

Richard H. Parsons passed away peacefully at his home on November 10, 2024, at the age of 85 surrounded by his loving family. Known affectionately as Richard (Dick) was born in Canton, where he spent his entire life, leaving behind a legacy of friendship, service and dedication.

Richard was the beloved husband of Nancy Parsons (Shugrue) for 58 years, filled with love and happiness. He was a supportive uncle to Jim Tyrell and his wife Lori of Canton, and Susan Weiner and her husband Steven of Norton. His role as a great uncle was cherished by Christopher Weiner and his wife Katie, Matthew Weiner and his wife Kayla, Kaitlyn Marino and her husband Tullio, And Brittney Weiner. The joy of his life extended to his great-great-nieces and nephews, Duncan Tyrell, Sylvia Tyrell, Emma Weiner, Remington Weiner and Lainey Marino, as well as many other nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Richard’s early years were spent in the familiar streets of Canton where he attended Canton High School. His commitment to his country was evident as he served with honor in the United States Army. After his service, Richard returned to his roots in Canton and found his calling as a machinist, a trade he practiced with skill and dedication.

Beyond his professional life Richard was a founding member of the Canton Fish & Game Club where he and wife Nancy became NRA instructors as well as lifetime members. He shared his passion for fishing and camping with friends and family. His hands were rarely still, as he was also a gifted woodworker, crafting pieces that they proudly sold at local flea markets. Richard’s competitive spirit shone through in his athletic abilities; He was a long-standing player in the Canton Men’s Softball League and relished his days driving his race car at the Norwood Arena. Due to Richard’s love for Christmas, every year he decorated his house like it was Santa’s Village, where he proudly played the role of Santa for all the neighborhood kids and pets.

Richard will be remembered as a friendly face in the crowd, a man who greeted everyone with a warm smile and an open heart. His presence at community events, whether at a game or a market stall, was always a welcoming sight. He lived his life with a sense of joy and purpose that touched all who knew him.

The legacy Richard leaves behind is not measured in the woodwork he crafted or the fish he caught, but in the countless lives he enriched through his kindness and sense of humor. He was a man who built and nurtured relationships – a testament to a life well lived.

As we say goodbye to Richard (Dick) we will remember him as a man who was truly the heart of his family and a friend to all.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home at 455 Washington Street, Canton on Monday November 18th at noon. Visiting hours prior to the service from 11:00 to 12:00 noon. Burial Knollwood Memorial Park in Canton.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in Richard's memory to the MSPCA or ASPCA.

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