Colossians 2:5 - For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
Elijah “Eli” Harrison Parsons, age 17, Jonesborough, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
Elijah was born on January 7, 2008, in Johnson City, TN, to Burleigh Joe & Kristyle Renee Parsons.
His passing was unexpected. There is no doubt that Eli is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Eli was a wonderful son and devoted friend! From the moment he could talk, he loved to make people laugh - a skill he carried with him throughout his life.
He was a senior at David Crockett High School, a dedicated athlete participating in cross country, track and wrestling.
Eli was a great brother to his siblings - Madison Parsons, Zachary Chase Parsons, B. Parsons, Corey Parsons (Andrea), Evan Parsons (Kim) and Austin Banner (Kayla).
Eli was a member of Cherry Grove Baptist Church and was known for inviting his friends to youth services.
Eli leaves his mother and father with more than seventeen years of joyful memories. He was their precious gift from God. In addition to his parents and siblings, he leaves behind his grandparents Percy and Shirley Parsons Lambert, Harry Wilburn and Barbara Sue Banner, three nephews and four nieces, and many cousins and aunts and uncles.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather Burleigh Joe Parsons Sr.
Funeral services will be conducted 3:00 PM Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Cherry Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Scott Hayes officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00-3:00 PM on Saturday prior to the service. Graveside services will follow at Cherry Grove Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Corey Parsons, Evan Parsons, Chase Parsons, Austin Banner, Caleb Hackney, James Mink, Conner Shaw, and Ethan Grear. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jackson White, Avery McAlister, Casen Davis and members of DCHS track, cross country and wrestling team.
In lieu of flowers, you may contribute to his sister Madison’s college fund at paypal.me/kristyle0107
Eli was more than just a classmate. He was a friend to all. No matter who you were, what you looked like, or what you were interested in, he always made sure to make you laugh. He would make a fart joke, and even though we're in high school, we still laughed because that was just the way Eli was. His laugh and smile would light up a room and always made sure to check in with everyone. It's not going to be the same without seeing him in his football pajama pants, but I know he's no longer suffering and he has gone home to see the Lord. I will continue to pray for the Parsons family and I am truly sorry for your loss.
he was very nice and kind. he was always a very nice friend to me and helped me whenever I needed help in gym. he was very funny and a kind soul. he would make anybody laugh with just his presence
I didn't personally know Eli, but my heart is truly broken for this family. I am so thankful for the promise of heaven and the assurance we have in Jesus. Praying for the Parson family in the coming days. May God give you a peace that only He can.
I love you Eli you will be missed.
Eli was a great kid. So so funny. Always fun to be around. My son Cameron loved him. Sports will never be the same without him. He will leave a hole that can never be filled and greatly missed. I’m praying for your family.
09/25/2025
Jennifer Cooper
Praying for peace that only God can provide during this difficult loss.
My prayers are with you. Your faith in God will be your strength. Sending you love and will keep you in my prayers.
Im so sorry for your loss and may God bless and comfort each of you.
09/25/2025
Oliver Jamieson
A joy to have on the track. The Science Hill Cross Country will deeply miss him. Thoughts and prayers to everyone.
