Bettye "Jane" Parker

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Watson Parker and Kathryn Parker and her husband, Dr. Arthur Hawley.

She is survived by her life partner, Alexander Jarrell, her sister, Kathryn “Ann” Parker, nephew, Barry Brewer, his wife, Andrea Brewer , their 5 children, and many grandchildren, and her stepdaughter, Kristen Hawley Stapp, her husband, and children. And of course, Jane had a group of close friends that she called her Chosen Family. They know who they are.

Jane was a long-time employee of Tulane University in the School of Social Work and held many positions during her time there. She was a licensed clinical social worker and held a PhD in Social Work. She was an expert in disaster mental health and was always ready to assist Tulane as well as the city through crisis intervention and support during emergencies. Tulane was near and dear to her heart.

Everyone that knew Jane Parker knew she was larger than life. She enjoyed life to the fullest and knew how to celebrate. Those who were lucky enough to participate in her St. Paddy’s Day Parade celebrations know that she was a gracious host as well as a wonderful and beautiful friend. She was always quick to help those in need; it was the social worker in her. She will be missed and mourned by many. But Jane would not want us to mope around and be sad, but to raise a glass of Makers Mark and hold a toast to life. She would want us all to remember her life as one of giving and kindness. Here’s to you, Jane!

A private Celebration of Life will be held with close friends and family. A public celebration will be announced at a later date, and it will be a Celebration of Life to remember for ages to come.