Robert “Bob” Parsons, associate professor emeritus of interior design at Virginia Tech, died on April 16 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Parsons dedicated his professional life to higher education and the advancement of design instruction.

Born in Weehawken, New Jersey, he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Louisiana Tech and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of North Texas.

Parsons was a member of the  faculty for 24 years, joining the university in 1981 to teach lighting design and interior design studio courses. He shaped the academic and professional paths of countless students and faculty members.

“I first met Bob Parsons in March 1998 when I interviewed at Virginia Tech, and I still remember him walking me across campus in the gray March weather, cigarette in hand, with a dry sense of humor and a memorable presence,” said Brad Whitney, interior design program chair.

“Bob had a strong personality and brought both wit and kindness to the department. He cared deeply about design education and brought his own perspective to teaching, always leaving an impression on students and colleagues alike. He was thoughtful, sharp, and someone you remembered.

“Bob was part of the generation that helped shape this program, and for me, he was part of the very beginning. He was one of the first people to welcome me to Virginia Tech and into this profession. Looking back now, I realize how much that matters.”

Parsons was instrumental in the development and growth of the program by serving on the department’s accreditation board and as a member of the university planning team during the 1980s. During his tenure, the interior design program became a part of the School of Design, located in what is now the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design.

“Virginia Tech’s interior design program is recognized among the best in the country because of the strong academic foundation built by generations of dedicated faculty, including Associate Professor Robert Alan Parsons,” said Lu Liu, dean of the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design. “His passion, commitment, and industry experience have shaped generations of students, many of whom are now leaders in the field. His legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.”

In addition to his tenure at Virginia Tech, Parsons taught at Radford University and the University of Oklahoma, extending his influence across multiple institutions and generations of students. His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, and he instilled a strong appreciation for learning and personal achievement in his daughters.

He will be remembered by colleagues and former students for his dedication to design education, his contributions to academic programs, and his lasting impact on those he taught and mentored.

You can read Parsons’ full obituary online.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:



Tags

Share this story