Joan Parker Bardwell, 84, a long time Central resident, was called home to our Lord and Savior on Sunday, May 21, 2023. She was born in Lumberton, MS on April 19, 1939 to Ellis and Hester Parker. She was the most generous and caring Mother, Sister, Aunt, Mimi and friend anyone could wish for and was so proud of every one of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and would brag about them every chance she got. She enjoyed being with her family the most, cooking and caring for her crew, and was the designated gumbo chef from Mississippi to Texas and in between. Joan was married to James L. Martin for 2 years until his passing in 1961. She was married to Charles Bardwell for 35 years until his passing in 2001. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Elbert Parker. She is lovingly remembered by her sisters May Lee Parker Bond and Marlene Cochran Fox and her sister in law Evelyn Parker; son James Gregory Martin and wife Tina Martin; daughter Carol Martin Schlatre and husband James A. Schlatre; son Chuck Bardwell and wife Deborah Bardwell; daughter Vicki B. Guillot and husband Randy Guillot; grandchildren Brandon Schlatre, Corey Martin, Heather S. Waggenspack, Blake Martin, Kayla B. Nissing, Haley G. McDougal, Marissa Bardwell, Cade Guillot, and Jake Guillot; great-grandchildren Levi and Tatum Martin, Hayden and Addison Nissing, Lane Waggenspack, and Cooper Martin; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held at Central Funeral Home on Hooper Road in Central on Friday, May 26th from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. There will be a private graveside gathering will follow at a later date. Pallbearers will be Corey and Blake Martin, Cade and Jake Guillot, Brandon Schlatre, Brian Waggenspack and honorary pallbearer C.J. McDougal. Central Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
