Jonathan W. Parsons

Jonathan W. Parsons, age 77, of Haskins, passed away Saturday, June 2, 2018 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Perrysburg. He was born July 14, 1940 to Jonathan and Alice (Merrick) Parsons in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Jonathan obtained his Master's Degree in Special Education from Oakland University and was a Teacher of the Emotionally Impaired for 44 years until retiring.

Jonathan and his husband Merle were the first gay couple married in Wood County in 2015, after happily being together for 22 years.

Jonathan was an avid gardener and had his own landscaping business for several years. In 2007 they received the Best Community Garden Award Lucas County from the Toledo Botanical Gardens. Jonathan attended Haskins Community Church for the last 5 years. He also loved his dog, Muddy.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Zachary Parsons; and brother, Howard Parsons. Jonathan is survived by his devoted husband, Merle Peoples; daughter, Marisa (James) Turner; grandchildren, Victoria and Nicholas Turner; brother, Ronald (Beverly) Parsons; sister-in-law, Dee Parsons; former spouse, Sandra (John) LeFleur; nieces and nephews, Dr. Ann (Tim) Parsons, Dr. David (Linda) Parsons, Wendy (Tony) Fuller, Ronald (Elizabeth) Parsons, Dr. Ted Parsons, Andy Parsons; and many dear friends.

Memorial Services for Jonathan will be held on Saturday, June 30, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Haskins Community Church, 209 W. Main St., Haskins, OH 43525. Newcomer – Northwest Chapel, Toledo (419-473-0300) assisted the family with professional services.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Haskins Community Church in honor of Jonathan.

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