Delegate Joe Parsons

Frederick "Happy" Joe Parsons is a Republican member of the West Virginia House of Delegates representing District 16, which encompasses Jackson County. Born in May 1961, Parsons is a longtime resident of Ripley, West Virginia, where he has maintained deep community ties throughout his career.

Parsons has built a distinguished career in media and broadcasting. He joined West Virginia Metro News on February 3, 1986, shortly after the network's launch, and has worked there for four decades. He currently serves as Senior Vice-President and General Manager of West Virginia Metro News and WVRC radio stations, overseeing technical operations, talent acquisition, and sales functions.

Before his media career, Parsons worked as a door-to-door vacuum salesman, an experience he credits with developing his sales skills and interpersonal abilities. In 2024, he was inducted into the West Virginia Broadcasting Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the state's media industry.

Political Experience

Parsons first entered public service by serving on the Jackson County Board of Education for eight years. Prior to running for the House of Delegates, he decided to seek elected office after his friend and predecessor, Steve Westfall, opted not to run for re-election.

As a Delegate, Parsons serves on the House Committee on Energy and Public Works. He has sponsored legislation during his tenure in the legislature, including bills introduced during the 2025 regular session.

Education

Specific details regarding Parsons's formal educational background are not publicly available through current legislative records.