Parvin A. Johnston was born on June 9, 1936. He was born at home on Hindman Ferry Rd. now called Watkins. Parvin attended Frayser High School until the 11th grade. Parvin's career began with grading lots around new houses for Mr. Noah. He would later become a bricklayer. He worked as bricklayer for many years and retired as a union member of the Memphis Union for Brick Masons. On May 23, 1963, Parvin married the love of his life, Sharon. While they were married for 44 years, no children were born to this union. Parvin's hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, bowling, deer hunting, and deep-sea fishing. Later in life Parvin lived with caregivers, Michael and Vivian Bracy.

Parvin is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Dennis and Charlotte Johnston of Horn Lake, MS; sister, Penny Thweatt of Lakeland, TN; nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, W. Dexter and Ruby Johnston; brothers, Dexter Johnston and Murpy Johnston; and sister Joyce Holland.