Randall "Randy" Phillip Parson

Randall "Randy" Phillip Parson, 70, of Mt. Ida, and formally of Benton, departed to his eternal home on May 8, 2022. He was born on December 3, 1951, to Vernon and Bertha Parson. Randall was raised in the Shaw community. He resided there until his retirement. He was of the Baptist faith and attended Faith Tabernacle Church in Mt Ida. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, and one grandchild, Kynnedi Jude Asher. Randy leaves behind to cherish his memory, his adoring wife and best friend of 27 years, Deborah Lynn Parson. Together they shared one son, Gregg Asher (Kaycee), and three daughters; Teresa Parson, Elizabeth Parson, Melissa Sword (Jeremy). In addition, one sister, Verna Ann Burnett and one brother, James Parson (Phyllis), twelve grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a host of family and beloved friends. He met Deborah (Deb as he affectionately called her) while they both worked with new construction homes. They were wed on June 11, 1994. Randy and Deb spent many years building two beautiful homes, hunting, fishing, loafing and everything in between. Randy retired as Superintendent from the City of Bryant Street Department in September of 2011 after 17 years of dedicated service. Operating heavy equipment was his most favorable task. Randy devoted many weekend adventures and eventually every day the weather allowed to Lake Ouachita. He trotlined, jug fished, limb lined and pole fished for catfish, crappie and bream. Randy caught his fair share of gar and even a hook to the face. He took everyone fishing. If you could tolerate the bugs at night, survive the snakes on the bank and hold your own umbrella, you could fish on his boat. Good luck out fishing him though! Randy cherished his children. He acted like a kid right along with them. Whether they were all wrestling, shooting pool, bicycling, playing football or Duck Hunt, Randy almost always won. They were brave enough to poke the bear but he couldn't be outran! He absolutely loved to laugh. He had the best snicker when he got tickled. He joked with everyone and if he ever gave you a nickname, it stuck. You never had to wonder about Randy's opinions, he'd tell you. He wasn't bashful. Honesty was an important virtue of him and he was a child of God. Randy was the toughest man we've ever known. He lived a beautiful life full of joy, fun and love. We will all miss him dearly. The Pallbearers graced with carrying our sweet Randy to his final resting place are as follows: Ted Collum, Chris Spruell, JR Bishop, Billy Mayberry, Danny Gwinn, Abner Garner and David James. Honorary Pallbearers are Gene Harrod and Charlie Jones. Chapel services by Ashby Funeral Home will be 11 a.m., on Thursday, with Bro. Bradley McCool and Bro. Roy Brooks officiating. Burial will follow at New Friendship Cemetery. Visitation will be at Ashbys on Wednesday, 6 until 8 p.m. Online guestbook at: www.ashbyfuneralhome.com