Gary Franklin Parsons

Gary F. Parsons, 66, of Walker, WV gained his eternal wings on January 23, 2024, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born on June 30, 1957, the youngest son of the late Laken and Joan (Higgins) Parsons. He retired from the Wood County Sheriff’s Office after 30 years of service. During his time there he participated in many specialty units including the Search and Rescue Dive Team, Narcotics Taskforce/SWAT team, and was a founding member of the department's Aviation Unit, logging over 1900 hours of time as a Pilot in Command. All of these things combined and his ability to get things done, earned him the nickname “Wiz”. He retired from the department at the rank of lieutenant. After his retirement he continued to stay active and continued his membership with the Iron Workers, Local Union 787. Gary was a member of the Murphy Town Baptist Church. He is survived by his son, Garrett Parsons, of Canton, OH. As well as his three brothers; Michael Parsons of Navarre, OH, Stephen Parsons (Sharon) of Davisville and Thomas Parsons (Terry) of Parkersburg and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by wife, Shana Modesitt in November 2021.

Funeral services will be 1 PM Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home with Chris Waldron officiating. Burial to follow at Skidmore Cemetery (Pleasant Valley) Walker, WV. Visitation will be 4 PM to 8 PM Friday January 26, 2024 and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Wood Co. Deputy Sheriff’s Association or your local Humane Society.

An online guestbook for condolences is available at www.sunsetparkersburg.com.

Sunset Memorial Funeral Home is honored to assist the Parsons family.