Remembrance for man killed in tragic accident

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Family and friends of 23-year-old Tommie Lee Parsons Jr. gathered for a parade in his hometown of Hilton on Sunday to remember his life.

Parsons Jr. was killed after being hit by a Jeep on Chili Avenue earlier this month while doing paving work.

Tommie’s father Tom Parsons said that Sunday was about remembering and healing.

“My son was larger than life. Not only to me, but to a lot of people as you can see,” Tom Parsons said.

Several paving companies and police officers lined the streets in a show of support.

“It means a lot to us. The people of the community, the reasons that they’re doing this is, ya know, there’s a lot of reasons,” Tom Parsons said.

It’s a shock that Tom hopes others will take into account when they are on the road.

“Number one, to celebrate his life and appreciate who he is and also to bring some awareness to ya know, just be aware of your surroundings. These folks that do these kind of jobs. Landscaping. Paving,” Tom Parsons said.

All so other parents never have to go through such a loss.

“Only a parent that has ever lost a child will ever understand how hard it is. But community coming together keeps us busy,” Tom Parsons said.

Parson’s death was ruled an accident, but police did send out a reminder for everyone to watch their surroundings.