Obituary for Madelyn Parsons

Madelyn Marie Parsons (Higgins), age 85, of Westerville, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 23, 2024, in her home of over 50 years, while surrounded by her family. She was born on June 22, 1938, in Point Pleasant, West Virginia to the late Thomas Hyatt and Mary Ellen (Edwards) Higgins. She graduated from Point Pleasant High School in 1957 and eloped with her future husband of 55 years, Charles Allen Parsons, on the night of her Senior Prom. 

Madelyn is survived by her daughter Charissa (Bernie) Cattrell, and their sons Charles, Marc (Allison), and Blake; and son Tim (Linda), and their children, Ashton (Michael) Secrist, and Logan (Olivia); brother Roy Higgins; and devoted sister Leota (John) Sang; great-grandchildren Margot and Everett Cattrell, Sutton Secrist, and Joanna Parsons; and numerous nieces and nephews who loved their “Aunt Maddie” so very much. In addition to her parents and husband, Madelyn was preceded in death by her infant son, Thomas Clayton Parsons, and sister-in-law Mary Higgins.

Upon their wedding, Madelyn assumed the job of being a Military Spouse, raising her children and managing her family’s homes on various east coast military bases during Charles’ 20-year career in the United States Marine Corps. Upon his retirement they settled in Westerville where she eventually took on the cherished roles of loving Grandma to her grandchildren and most recently “GG” to her great-grandchildren.

Madelyn was a great cook and spent many summers working with Charles in their garden. She also enjoyed their trips to Lake Erie and Amish Country as well as traveling throughout the Midwest to support all of her grandchildren’s activities. Madelyn loved hosting family and friends in her home, which often included games that seemed to always bring out her competitive spirit. She was a faithful Christian and was looking forward to her new heavenly home. 

Her funeral will be held at 11AM on Friday, March 1, 2024, at Westerville Christian Church with Pastor Dave Cahoon officiating. Burial will follow at Blendon Central Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4PM-6PM on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at Hill Funeral Home in Westerville.  

Memorial contributions may be made to Right Start Ministries (www.rightstartradio.org) or Honor Flight Columbus (www.honorflightcmh.org). 

Madelyn’s family would like to thank the hardworking staff of Worthington Christian Village for their loving care and treating her like family.