Joshua Holt Parsons, Sr
t is with broken hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joshua Holt Parsons on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the age of 71.
Holt was born September 29, 1954, in Texarkana, Texas to David George and Chelma Holt Parsons. He was a lifetime resident of Texarkana. He graduated from Texas High School in1973 and earned a degree in industrial management from East Texas State University, not for himself but to please his beloved father. Holt’s interests pulled him towards cars at a young age. He bought his first car, a 1952 VW Bug for $28 at the age of 14 and upgraded to a 1962 Chevy Nova, that he paid $160 for the following year.
He started working with a gifted mechanic Billy Dale McGonigle in the 7th grade with whom he shared a close bond. This past January marked 50 years since he began selling cars at Orr Chevrolet, where his career in the car business first took shape.
In 1974 he married the love of his life Teensy Smith, and together they enjoyed a life of adventures; summers on houseboats at Lake Greeson, building and selling over 20 homes together, ski trips to Colorado with friends and kids, and a truly genuine love story.
Holt was a people person, the life of the party and never one to sit still. For many years he played regular golf games with friends and always lived for the hunting season. He cherished his time at Yellow Creek Hunting Club with his incredible group of dearest friends.
He is survived by his wife Teensy Smith Parsons, son Joshua Holt Parsons and daughter Lauren Leigh Parsons.
He was preceded in death by his parents Chelma and David Parsons, brother David George Parsons, great aunts Betty Parsons Dooley and Jane Roberts Wood.
Our family is profoundly grateful to the teams at MD Anderson, specifically Dr. Mark Zafereo and our angel PA Julia Diersing, who fought so hard for Holt. We are also indebted to Dr. Billy Tompkins for his continual guidance, always delivered with his signature sharp wit.
A visitation will be held at Texarkana Funeral Home, on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 5-7 PM. A private burial will take place on Saturday.
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