Loretta Mae (Gray) Parsons

Loretta Mae (Gray) Parsons was born August 30, 1947, in Salem, Missouri. She was one of two children born to Lloyd Elijah Gray and Helen Louise Keithly. Loretta grew up in Salem and attended Salem High School. On December 27, 1963, Loretta met Eddie Dwaine Parsons, while he was cruising uptown. The two fell in love and were united in marriage on May 16, 1964. They shared nearly sixty years of marriage together and created a lifetime of lasting memories. Loretta and Eddie were blessed with two children: Kim and Terry. Loretta worked as a pharmacy technician for Sherman Odom with Vandivort Drug Store for many years. She was a hard worker dedicated to her family. Loretta always put her family’s needs before her own. She was a devoted wife, caring mother, and loving grandmother. Loretta loved her family, spending time with her grandsons, and making memories to last a lifetime. Her interests include watching television and playing on the slot machines. She loved shopping, finding a good bargain at yard sales, and browsing the thrift stores. Loretta was a lady of faith and enjoyed attending New Home Baptist Church when she was able. Loretta departed this life January 3, 2024, in Rolla, Missouri, at the age of seven-six years. Those left behind to cherish her memory include her loving husband: Eddie Parsons of Salem, MO; daughter: Kim Gregory and husband Daniel of Salem, MO; son: Terry Parsons and wife Laura of Salem, MO; grandsons: Matt Gregory of Salem, MO and Tyler Parsons and wife Samantha of Salem, MO; brother: Dennis Gray and wife Kelly of Ozark, MO; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death, her father: Lloyd Gray and her mother: Helen Gray Harter. Loretta was one of the best. Those close to her knew her by her family nickname, “Sponge”. She was fun loving, sweet, kind, and compassionate. Loretta loved deeply and will be deeply missed by those who loved her most. Funeral Services for Loretta Mae (Gray) Parsons were held Friday, January 5, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Charlie Younger officiating. Special Music was provided by Debbie Heck singing “Amazing Grace” and Charlie Younger singing “Beulah Land”, additional song selection played was “Precious Lord, Take My Hand”. Serving as Pallbearers were Jack Davis, Tyler Parsons, Matthew Gregory, Daniel Gregory, Dennis Gray, and Dallas Southards. Honorary Pallbearer was Lonnie Southards. Burial was in the North Lawn Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Loretta Mae (Gray) Parsons

August 30, 1947 - January 3, 2024