Thomas Parsons

Thomas Michael Parsons of Plymouth, Indiana, passed away on May 30, 2026, at the age of 80, after falling ill with pneumonia.

Tom was born on October 8, 1945, to Walter and Mae (Layden) Parsons. He grew into a man of remarkable intelligence and talent. He served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, receiving two Purple Hearts after being wounded in action.

Tom possessed a sharp mind and endless curiosity. He loved to read and could discuss almost any subject with insight, enjoying spirited conversations about history, science, philosophy, and politics. A gifted carpenter and skilled outdoorsman, he was happiest when working with his hands, spending time hunting, fishing, or enjoying nature, and communicating with friends and family.

He was an accomplished softball player and coach who loved the game and the friendships it brought into his life. He spent many enjoyable years coaching in the Plymouth Youth Softball League as well as club and women’s majors teams in Northern Indiana.

Perhaps more than anything, Tom will be remembered as a storyteller. Whether recounting adventures, sharing lessons learned, or simply entertaining family and friends, he had a gift for capturing people’s attention. His humor, quick wit, and trademark sarcasm could fill a room with laughter.

Tom married Sandra Livinghouse in 1965, and together they had three children, who survive: Julie (spouse Matt Davis; parents of Phoebe and Sylvie); Sean (spouse Sarah Long; parents of Alice, Harry, Lucy, and Dorothy); and Elisabeth “Betsey” (spouse Patrick Foreman; parents of Lillian, Olivia, and Joey).

In 1984, Tom married Diann (Miller) Voreis, and helped raise her two daughters, Christine Voreis (spouse Brian Hides; parents of Marielle and Eloise) and Tracy Voreis (spouse Andy Dabasinskas; parents of Paxton). Though their marriage ended after 25 years, Tom and Diann remained friends and loving grandparents who continued to share in the joys of family gatherings.

Tom is also survived by his brother, Dave Parsons, Dave’s wife Toni, and their daughters, Emma and Tessa. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Parsons and Mae Wilson, and his beloved aunt, Violet “Oly” Layden, as well as several cousins and close friends.

Like many veterans, Tom carried burdens that were not always visible. He struggled with his mental health, alcoholism, and a temper that sometimes strained relationships. Yet those who knew him best knew a man who continued to fight his battles, who loved deeply in his own way, and whose strengths and flaws were woven together into the story of a full and complicated life. He will be greatly missed.

A private memorial gathering will take place where his request to have his ashes scattered in the Yellow River will be honored. Contributions in his name can be made to Ducks Unlimited, Wounded Warrior Project, or the Plymouth Youth Softball League.