It would be wise to use a spark plug chaser to clean up the threads. Amazon has them. Use grease on it for any debris to stick to.

 

Will the tight plug tighten back up? It the threads have galled and tear up, some kind of a timesert will be needed. Try some PB BLASTER.

 

Got it out, put some PB blaster on it and it came out easy then! Stepped back and forth

Soooo....

Finally have everything put together and here is video of five attempts at starting... here is video


The first attempt did see some engine movement and some clank noise at end, but not starting. Future attempts uneventful , no start.

Battery read at around 11.7 volts. Too low to start?

list of things done:

Replaced spark plugs with NGK 6953
Replaced ignition plug wires with NGK 51165
Replaced both coil packs with DELPHI GN10128
Replaced head cover gasket
Replaced air filter
Replaced PCV valve AC Delco 19313315
Replaced PCV tube
Changed oil+filter

I'll try charging battery, any other advice appreciated to try,

 

Try a 5 second shot of starting fluid into the throttle body. I'm not sure you're getting any fuel.

 

Per Rube, it sounds like it is starting off of fumes on the first try.
2nd to fifth try, not firing, and the cranking speed seems low

What's the fuel pressure at the schrader valve near the fuel rail under the hood?

11.5 ish seems to be the average batt V below which these cars won't start. Likely because the PCM is not sufficiently powered, ICM not behaving as designed, and other things.

Can't remember if you tried to start this with a jump or a jump box.

Rube's suggestion should quickly tell you if it's fuel starved. Also, remember that the fuel pressure regulator in 95 is under the hood on the fuel rail. There's a vac line to it. But again, Rube's test puts "combustible stuff" right the intake manifold.