It is with great sadness that the family of the late Gerard (Jerry) Parsons announces his passing at the Baie Verte Peninsula Health Centre, Baie Verte, NL on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at the age of 63 years.

Jerry is lovingly remembered by his Wife, Best Friend and High School Sweetheart, Pam (for a total of 47 years);  his Son, Jordan, who he had such fun with and whom he dearly loved; His Siblings, Martin Parsons (Margaret), David Augustus Parsons (Martina), Bernard Parsons (Annie), Olivera Spinney, Jane Penton (Nish), Bill Parsons (Fran), Elaine Herbert (Byron), Phyllis Randell (Bill), Diane Quinteros (Gregg), Wayne Parsons; Brother-In-Law, Hans Prahl; Siblings-In-Law, Patricia Small (Eugene), Joan Cassell (Guy), Bill Randell (Phyllis), Rosalie Apolinario (Manny).  Because Jerry came from a big family of 13 children, he had many Nieces and Nephews, who he loved dearly; especially his Nephew, Rod, as they were more like Brothers, as well as a large circle of relatives and special friends, along with his feline girlfriend, Marley.

Jerry is predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Patricia Parsons; Sisters, Alice Hawkins and Linda Parsons; Brothers-In-Law, Wladamir Quinteros, Brian Spinney and Walter Hawkins; Parents-In-Law, Garfield and Winnona Randell; Special Uncle, Bernard Brien.

Jerry was born in Springdale, NL.  When his Mother took him home she knew she had a whopper of a boy there, with big blue eyes that would earn him all kinds of attention.  He grew to enjoy sports as a student and especially loved basketball.  He was smart and adventurous and loved to learn carpentry skills from his Dad.  Jerry loved to learn about everything and he was a quick learner.  He completed the programs of Carpentry, Millwright, Welding and Environmental Engineering Technology with ease.

As newlyweds, Jerry and Pam spent 5 years in Tumbler Ridge, BC, and returned home to where their hearts were, Baie Verte.  Pam later wrote a song for Jerry called, "My Champ and My Hero", a true love song.  Jordan played the instruments and did all the work to have it recorded.  Jerry always lit up when he heard Pam sing it and he was so proud of Jordan's musical talent. The song is a true testament of their love.

Jerry worked in Nova Scotia and Ontario for a number of years and always earned a lot of respect from his employers and would return home with a Certificate of Appreciation or an accolade of recognition as a valuable employee.  He also worked at Rambler Mines.  Jerry loved to work with his hands and he loved the outdoors, especially fishing.  He could fit a square peg in a round hole after applying his patience, strength and determination, and then he'd give you a wink after.  He was a wonderful cook at home and was known for his tasty bar food.  Jerry started his own business in 2010, The Nugget Sports Bar, where he earned a loyal customer base and provided a relaxing environment for his patrons and made lots of friends there.

"Jerry, you fought a courageous battle with cancer that began in 2019.  You met it with fierce determination, as was your style in all of life's challenges.  Your bravery remains victorious in our eyes; and, who you were before cancer, springs vibrant with life once more.  Your love and your strength lives on.  Rest easy, Jerry.  Until we meet again.

The Family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Baie Verte Peninsula Health Center for their kindness, with extra thanks to Connie Downey and Paula Edwards for the special attention and professional care they gave to Jerry.

The Service of Remembrance will take place on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 12:30pm at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, Baie Verte, with Father Emmanuel officiating.  Interment will follow at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Cemetery, Baie Verte, NL.  A celebration of Jerry's life will follow at the The Nugget Sports Bar with food and refreshments from 2pm - 5pm.

As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jerry's memory to St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church Cemetery Fund.

MY HEART STILL WALKS WITH YOU

Do not think I've gone away,

I walk beside you every day.

In gentle light, in quiet air,

Close your eyes -- I'm always there.

When your heart feels lost in blue,

Know my love still carries you.

Not in shadows, not in pain,

But in every smile you find again.

I am the warmth upon your face,

The calm within your sacred space.

A whisper soft, a steady guide,

Forever walking by your side.

So live, love, laugh, and carry on,

For I am not truly gone.

In all you are and all you do,

My heart still walks this world with you.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 22 Main Street, Baie Verte, NL.