Wendell Parsons, Sr.

Wendell Parsons Sr., age 70, passed away at home on January 14, 2026, with his wife, Claudia, by his side. While his parents, Willie and Nellie (Bailey) Parsons, had already made their home in Ohio, Wendell was born on November 24, 1955, in Martin, Kentucky, after his mother decided a little Kentucky air was just right for his arrival. He was raised in Toledo, Ohio, where he built a life, a family, and a reputation for saying exactly what everyone else was thinking.

Wendell was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, and he took those titles very seriously. He loved his family fiercely and unapologetically. Always on the go, he was forever in a hurry to get somewhere and just as eager to hurry back home. Known for his quick wit, sharp humor, and talent for telling it like it was, whether you asked or not, Wendell could make you laugh, set you straight, and have your back all at the same time. He was reliable to a fault, the kind of man you could always count on, and those closest to him knew that his greatest pride and joy was his family.

He is survived by his wife, Claudia Parsons; his son, Wendell “Rerun” Parsons Jr. (Stephanie); and his daughters, Julie Martinez (Manuel) and Dawn Cundick (William). He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kelly Ann Parsons, whom he carried in his heart always.

Wendell was a proud Papa to ten grandchildren, Rene, Nico, Catie, William Jr., Shane, Maryssa, Alanna, Jace, Rylan, and Wendell III, and a cherished great grandfather to eight great grandchildren, Thalia, Liliana, Amiliana, Analayah, Abigail, Eleanor, Beau and Liam . He delighted in teaching them many important life lessons, along with a few words their parents probably wish he had not, a talent they will surely remember him for.

He is also survived by his sisters, Kathy Butler (Brian), Pearlene Finch, Arlene Rios (Henry), and Betty Cundick; and his brother, Bob Parsons. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Alvin Parsons Sr. and Bill Parsons Sr.

After retiring from Independent Concrete Pipe Company, Wendell did what retirees who do not really retire do; He stayed busy. He spent countless hours in the family auto repair shop alongside his father, son, brothers, nephews, and friends. Whether fixing engines, offering unsolicited but usually correct advice, or just enjoying some good shop talk, Wendell was happiest when he was working with his hands and surrounded by the people he loved. In his later years, he finally slowed down just enough to enjoy trips, cruises, concerts, and camping adventures with his family, though he was still usually in a hurry to get there and a hurry to get back home.

Above all else, Wendell was a family man. His humor, loyalty, and unwavering love left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the laughter he sparked, the lessons he taught, and the family who will carry his spirit forward with a little sarcasm and a lot of love.

The family will receive guests on Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Newcomer Funeral Home - West Sylvania Chapel, 3655 King Rd, Toledo. An additional visitation will be held at the Funeral Home on Monday, January 19, 2026 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am with a Funeral Service immediately following. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather following services at The Club, 1128 N. McCord Road, Toledo, Ohio 43615.

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