Richard Parsons Sr.

The Honorable Richard A. Parsons Sr. passed away on Friday, October 10, 2008 in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the age of 81. Judge Parsons was born in Eldorado, Kansas on November 23, 1926. After serving as a Naval Cadet during World War II, Judge Parson, attended the first class of the School of Law at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, graduating in 1950. During this time he met Shirley Shirl Shaver, who became his wife on December 26, 1950. After graduating from law school, Judge Parsons, rejoined the Navy and proudly served his countgry as a Naval Aviator during the Korean Conflict. Judge and Shirl Parsons had three children before moving to Ruidoso, New Mexico in October, 1960. It was at this time when Judge Parsons, together with his loving wife, opened a law practice. Judge Parsons was elected in 1984 as District Judge for a newly created position, sitting in Carrizozo, New Mexico. He took office in 1985 and served two terms until he retired on December 31, 1996. Although retired, Judge Parsons was appointed by the Supreme Court of the State of New Mexico to serve as District Judge for the Seventh and Twelfth Judicial Districts. Judge Parsons was an honest and genersous public servant, and a very loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife Shirl; three children, Sharon L. Parsons-Wagner and her husband, Bill of North Mankato, Minnesota, Karen L. Parsons-Williams and her husband Neale, of Alto, New Mexico, and Richard A. Parsons Jr. and his wife Wendy of Alto, New Mexico; five grandchildren, Shirryn Williams-Padilla and her husband Brian, Rachael Williams, Brittiin Wagner, Ryan and Lindsey Parsons; and two great grandchildren, Noah and Madasyn. Judge Parsons was dearly loved by his entire family and friends and will be greatly missed by all. Memorial services will be held on Monday, Oct. 20, at 10:00 at the Ruidoso Convention Center.

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