James Homer Parsons

James Homer Parsons, Sr., 85 formerly of Harlan, passed away on December 5, 2017, surrounded by family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Thelma Audrey Wallace Parsons, daughter, Melinda Parsons Nunley (Michael), sons, Dennis (Karen) and James (Debra) Parsons, grandsons, Christopher Ryan (Regina), Joshua Erik (April) and Michael (Michelle), great-grandsons, Trevor, Ty and Costner and three great granddaughters, McKailee, Rosalie and Henley.

Homer was proceeded in death by his parents, Dolpha R. Parsons and Beatrice Carty, sisters, Mary (Sonny) Rutherford and Gerry (Kirby) Woosley, and brother, David (Sue).

He followed in the family trade as a third generation well driller. He was a licensed driller in multiple states as well as a licensed master plumber and certified as a master welder in Kentucky. After providing professional drilling services for 12 years, he and his wife founded, and operated Eastern Well Drilling Company located in Harlan County for 33 years until their retirement in 1997.

Homer served as a past President and member of the Board of the Kentucky Water Well Association

He was a member of Mary’s Chapel First United Methodist Church, Masons and Shriners.  He enjoyed music, dancing, boating and the beauty of nature, especially the sparkle of light on the water.

Homer requested his celebration of life and final placement of ashes be postponed till the passing of his wife of over 64 years of marriage. At that time there will be a grave side memorial service at Rest Haven Cemetery followed by a joint celebration of their lives.

The family suggests donations in his memory to Friends of Hospice - The Serenity House-End of Life Care Home.  Please mail donations to P.O. Box 763, Harlan, KY  40831.