Matthew Joel Parson

Matthew Joel Parsons was born on October 15, 1977, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to James Parsons and Rosanettia Parsons. He later relocated with his family to Long Beach, California, in August of 1979, where he grew up surrounded by family, community, and the experiences that helped shape the man he became. From an early age, Matthew showed energy, creativity, and a spirit all his own. He participated in baseball with the Cardinals and ran track with the South Bay Panthers. Matthew was known as someone who truly marched to the beat of his own drum. Matthew spent time in Albany, New York, where he attended the STOP program and became involved in step theatre programs. Through those programs, his personality, rhythm, and creative expression were able to shine. Throughout his life, Matthew carried with him a unique outlook and a strong sense of individuality. Though he faced struggles along the way, Matthew cared deeply for his community and his family. He had a heart that felt deeply, and he often expressed himself through writing songs and poetry about his life, his battles, and the emotions he carried inside. Matthew's life was not defined by hardship, but by the love he shared, the memories he created, and the spirit he left behind. He was a son, a brother, a father, an athlete, a writer, a poet, and a man who lived life in his own way. Those who knew him will remember his creativity, his strength, his originality, and the love he had for those close to him. On June 10, 2026, Matthew Joel Parsons went on to his eternal life. Though his passing leaves a deep emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, his memory will continue to live on through his family, his children, his words, and the many lives he touched. Matthew was preceded in death by his father, James A. Parsons; his brother, Michael Parsons; his brother, John -Marc Parsons, and his nephew William Parsons. He also leaves behind his wife Dorothy Parsons, mother, Rosanettia Parsons, his daughter Ky’reesha Parsons, his stepdaughter Dwa’neisha Campbell and several other loving children, his sister, Nina Parsons, and his brothers, Jonny, Paul, Jacob, and Jonathan Parsons. He also leaves behind friends, and other family.

Matthew Joel Parson

October 15, 1977 - June 10, 2026