It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Martin Parsons, famed updo artist, educator and extraordinary hairdresser known for his incredible heart, beautiful hair designs and approachable techniques.

Parsons' brother Kent shared the below:

It is with great sadness that I must announce the passing of my brother, Martin Parsons. He passed peacefully in Toronto on October 21, 2019 with his family and friends by his side.

From the age of 11 Martin knew that he wanted to be was a hairdresser. Our aunt took him to his first hair show in Detroit to see the Zegarelli Brothers with Beaute Craft and from that moment on he realized he wanted to be on stage.  As soon as he could he enrolled with Bruno’s Schools in London Ontario and his journey began.    

Always looking the part in his impeccable tailored suits as he walked out on stage, his audiences always knew they were in for a great experience.  His hands had the grace and elegance of a champion figure skater, magically creating stunning styles in just minutes. And then there were his gowns!  His creativity knew no bounds. With professionalism and focus he would deliver his consistent message, 'We are in the greatest industry and get to create beauty everyday of our lives.  Who else can touch so many people in our communities? Stand up and be proud to be a hairdresser!'

In classes, Martin was proudest when sharing his Cutting & Design Techniques and Updo Concepts with so many and was thrilled when the “a ha” moments from those that attended.  His patience and encouragement to young and old, inspired multiple generations of stylists to be better at their craft, everyday. Whether a picture, a chat, answer to a question or just a hug, he was always real and genuine to everyone he met.

Martin crossed paths with many people that had an impact on his life and career and two stand out.  Evelyn Hathaway from Bruno’s saw and nurtured his talents and gave him his first tastes of the stage and Paula Kent Meehan, founder of Redken who gave him true friendship and the opportunities of a lifetime. To all the others, thank you for believing in Martin.  It meant the world to him and he never forgot who you are.

His hope is that we all take a few minutes each day to share ideas and help our fellow stylists to make our industry a little better every day. That would make him smile."

Martin will be missed by many from around the world. He was proud of a career that gave him an incredible life and I was so honoured and lucky to be one of the people to share the adventure with him."

Martin Parsons will be incredibly missed and MODERN SALON thanks him for his beautiful contributions to this industry and our publication, and for forever elevating hairdressing community.