Joel "Joey" E. Parson, 48, of Elyria, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at University Hospital in Cleveland after a long illness. He was born in Elyria on February 7, 1977 to parents, Robert and Lanata (née Lilly). After graduating Keystone High School in LaGrange, Joel served as foster parent for several years and was greatly loved by all who were mentored by him. This was his passion and he had a great relationship with them.  He attended Broadway Assembly Church in Lorain where he participated as a member of the choir. Joel was an avid Jeff Gordon and NASCAR fan and sports memorabilia collector.

Survivors include his parents; siblings, Dale (Ginger) Parson, Cynthia (Neal) Parson, and David (Tracy) Parson; nieces and nephews, Nicholas, Nathan (Ashley), Jeremy, Olivia, Hannah, Mason, and Harper. He is preceded in death by nephew, Scott Parson and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025 from 4-7 p.m. at the Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services 38475 Chestnut Ridge Road (at State Route 57) in Elyria. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Pastor Matt Jones will officiate. Burial will follow at Butternut Ridge Cemetery in Eaton Township. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joey's name can be sent to Joel's favorite charity Northeast Ohio SPCA 9995 Brookpark Road, Parma, Ohio 44129.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.