The Jonesborough community is mourning the unexpected death of Elijah “Eli” Harrison Parsons, age 17, who passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
Born on January 7, 2008, in Johnson City, Tennessee, Eli was the cherished son of Burleigh Joe and Kristyle Renee Parsons.
His parents, siblings, and friends remember him as a joyful young man who carried an infectious sense of humor from the time he first learned to talk.
Eli lived his life with energy, laughter, and unwavering faith. He was known for making others smile and for being a loyal and devoted friend.
Those closest to him take comfort in knowing that Eli is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
A senior at David Crockett High School, Eli poured his dedication into athletics, competing in cross country, track, and wrestling.
His parents recall the pride he felt when they cheered for him at meets, always looking for their smiles of approval.
His teammates and coaches remember him not only as a committed athlete but also as a source of encouragement and positivity.
Eli was a treasured younger brother and a protective older brother.
He shared a special bond with his siblings—Madison, Zachary Chase, B. Parsons, Corey (Andrea), Evan (Kim), and Austin Banner (Kayla).
Madison especially cherished having her big brother as a senior while she entered ninth grade, enjoying their daily rides to school and the moments they shared together at lunch.
Eli’s siblings recall countless laughs, playful teasing, and a love that ran deep.
His parents describe him as their “precious gift from God,” blessing them with more than 17 years of joyful memories.
“We never imagined we’d have to say goodbye so soon,” his father, Burleigh, expressed, reflecting on Eli’s full-of-life personality and the void his absence now leaves.
Eli’s faith shaped his life. As a member of Cherry Grove Baptist Church, he often invited his friends to youth services, hoping they, too, would experience the joy of fellowship.
His influence extended beyond his family, touching his peers, who continue to share stories of how he brought laughter, kindness, and light into their lives.
Eli is survived by his parents, siblings, grandparents Percy and Shirley Parsons Lambert, Harry Wilburn, and Barbara Sue Banner, as well as three nephews, four nieces, and many cousins, aunts, and uncles.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Burleigh Joe Parsons Sr.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Cherry Grove Baptist Church, with Pastor Scott Hayes officiating.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 to 3:00 PM before the service, followed by a graveside service at Cherry Grove Cemetery.
Pallbearers include 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 the DCHS track, cross country, and wrestling teams.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to his sister Madison’s college fund, honoring Eli’s love for his family and their future.
Elijah Parsons’s death leaves a painful void, but his life continues to inspire those who knew him.
He will be remembered for his faith, his laughter, and the love he shared with his family, friends, and community.
His memory will live on in the stories told, the lives he touched, and the faith he carried to the very end.
