Linda Parsons

Mrs. Linda Emma Elizabeth Parsons (Thurow), 76, passed away surrounded by her loved ones on February 22, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida.  

Born on April 8, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Linda grew up with a deep love for family and faith. She graduated in 1966 from North Boone High School in Poplar Grove, Illinois. Her life was one of dedication to her loved ones, her career, and her passions.  

Linda spent two decades as a Senior Academic Advisor at the University of Florida, where she guided countless college students toward their futures. Her warmth and wisdom left a lasting impact on those she mentored. In addition to her academic career, she and her husband, Bill, once owned a cheese and wine boutique, creating cherished memories together through their shared entrepreneurial spirit.  

Linda’s heart was always with her family. She was married to her best friend, Billy Joe Parsons, for 54 years—a partnership built on love and faith. Together, they embraced the joys of raising their children: Michael, Cynthia (Scott), Joseph (Debbie), and Johnathan (Liz). Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren—Amber, Michael (Tiffany), Rachael, Sebastian, Blake, Bryce, Taylor (Michael), Cassie, Tyler, and Charlize and six great-grandchildren—Lil' Michael, Liliana, Nicholas, Sophia, and Evelyn—who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her sisters Jessica Thurow and Victoria Thurow and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilmer Earl Thurow and Helen Marie Bausch Thurow; her brother, Wilmer Earl Thurow Jr.; and her sister, Kathleen Julianna Schultz.  

Linda found peace in the simple joys of life—raising and riding Arabian horses on the farm she shared with Bill, cooking and baking for those she loved, crocheting beautiful creations, and getting lost in the pages of a good novel. Her favorite book of the Bible was Psalms—a reflection of the steadfast faith that guided her every step. As a devoted Adventist believer, Linda’s faith was the foundation upon which she built her life and marriage.  

She will be remembered as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend—someone who radiated kindness and joy wherever she went. Her love for family knew no bounds; she embraced not only those closest to her but also extended family and friends with open arms.  

Linda’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her—but until we see you again in heaven… ride with the angels.

Crevasse's Simple Cremation is honored to serve the Parsons family.