Johnny Theodore Parsons
Johnny Theodore Parsons, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, amazing big brother, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 76 years old.
Johnny was born on January 21, 1948, in Twin Falls, Idaho, to George and Ruth Parsons. He spent his childhood in the quaint town of Buhl, Idaho where he developed a strong work ethic while working on the family farm. He was an active member of the 4-H program and found joy in participating in local rodeos. Johnny also honed his skills as a horse-shoer, a talent that earned him extra income and respect within the community.
After graduating from high school, Johnny attended the College of Southern Idaho. However, his life took a significant turn when he decided to enlist in the United States Navy on July 9, 1968.
Thus began a distinguished naval career that spanned over three decades, including 20 years of active duty and ten years in the fleet reserve. He proudly served on various ships, including the USS Cleveland, USS Benewah, USS Quapaw, and the USS Flint. He served as an engineer onboard ship and concluded his proud military career in 1988 as Petty Officer First Class, running Division A Engineers on the USS Flint.
While in the Navy, Johnny crossed the equator multiple times, exploring exotic destinations such as Diego Garcia, Japan, and Tasmania. In 1970, while stationed briefly in Manila, Philippines, Johnny met the love of his life, Maria “Cora” Socorro Jomoc. Their whirlwind romance culminated in marriage two weeks later, on December 21, 1970.
Together, they welcomed their daughter Maria on September 21, 1972. Johnny cherished his daughter and treasured every moment spent with her.
After Johnny retired from the military, he moved his family from the San Francisco Bay Area back to Idaho in July 1988. They settled in the capital city of Boise. Johnny went on to work his second career in electronics manufacturing for Plexus Corp in Nampa, Idaho, retiring as a line supervisor. Another career Johnny was proud of.
Johnny spent his retirement years picking up hobbies such as making walking canes, going to the shooting range, and enjoying life with his wife Cora until her untimely death in 2011.
From then, Johnny and his daughter Maria enjoyed spending lots of time together, including his favorite, having weekly breakfast at Denny’s.
Johnny is survived by his daughter, Maria Borders; his sister, Becky Jean Bowman; his grandchildren, Contessa, Zachary, and Jacob Borders; as well as his niece, Cheri Vincent, and nephews, Charles and Kenneth Parsons and Brian Vincent. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ruth Parsons, his brother, George Allen Parsons, and his beloved wife Cora, of 41 years.
Johnny Theodore Parsons will be fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his proud service to his country, and his zest for life. He leaves a legacy of love, courage, and resilience that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Johnny will be laid to rest with military honors alongside his wife Cora on May 10, 2024, at 2 PM at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery.
A celebration of Johnny’s life will follow the next day at Jeff and Maria’s home on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 5 PM.
Fair winds & following seas.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.