Eleanor Jane Peden

Born Eleanor Jane Parks on September 18, 1942, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to William and Marian Parks, she was lovingly known to all as “Jane” or “Nana Jane.” She grew up in Benton Harbor, Michigan, alongside her brothers Donald, Robert, and Richard. Jane attended Benton Harbor High School, where she was a dedicated member of the school band and marching band. It was there she met her first love, Frederick Peden. The two married on August 27, 1961, and built a life together centered on family, faith, hard work, and community.

Jane and Fred raised their three children in Benton Harbor, where Jane enjoyed a long and meaningful career with Benton Harbor Area Schools. Whether working in the main office or volunteering at her children’s schools, she was a constant and loving presence—always quick to call out over the intercom to one of us, “Sweet Pea, you left your lunch in the car.” Her warmth and sense of humor touched countless students, colleagues, and families. In addition, she was a longtime member of Peace Temple United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir, supported youth ministries, and volunteered wherever she was needed.

Jane’s devotion to her children extended far beyond the home. She was a proud Team Mom, tireless chaperone, and active Booster Club member—always the first to volunteer, organize, and cheer from the sidelines. Whether packing snacks for the team bus, sewing last-minute costume fixes, or rallying support for school fundraisers, Jane brought her signature warmth and energy to every event. Her presence was a constant source of encouragement, and her ability to make every child feel special left a lasting impression on generations of students and families.

After retiring, Jane moved to Texas to be near her children and grandchildren. When she wasn’t with her family, she continued to live a life of service to others through her volunteer work at St. David’s North Austin Medical Center. But Jane’s commitment to caring for others began long before retirement. While still working full-time for Benton Harbor Area Schools, she also served as a hospice volunteer—offering comfort, dignity, and companionship to patients and their families during life’s most tender moments. One friend shared, “We are all richer, we are all better people for sharing this world with your mom. She is a role model. She is a rock. Tough and caring. And of course, I'll always remember her for what she did for my mom in the last months of my mom's life. Your mom led and lived.” Her strength and tenderness left an indelible mark—not only on those she served, but on everyone who witnessed her grace.

Jane never met a stranger. Whether offering a recipe tip in the grocery store line or lending a listening ear, she had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for. Her greatest joy came from loving and serving her family, friends, and anyone lucky enough to cross her path. She was the heart of her home, a second mother to many, and a steadfast source of wisdom, faith, and comfort.

Jane is survived by her brothers Robert and Richard Parks; her children Jeffery & Claudia Peden, Gregory & Kellie Peden, and Mary Peden/Gruca & Don Gruca; her grandchildren Breana & Bryan Murphy, Carissa & Darryl Small II, Jeffery Peden II, Emery Stokes, Kelsey Stokes, Nathaniel Gruca, Sophia Peden, and Caroline Peden; and her great-grandchildren Paris Murphy, Cillian Murphy, Darryl “Tripp” Small III, Camilla Small, Ada Murphy, and Courtland Scotty Murphy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Marian Parks; her brother Donald Parks; her ex-husband Frederick Peden; her daughter-in-law Paris Peden; and her son-in-law Reginald Stokes.

Jane’s legacy is one of unconditional love, generosity, and unwavering faith. She taught us the importance of hard work, respect, pride, and the unbreakable bond of family. To say she will be missed is an understatement. Though our hearts ache, we hold fast to the hope she instilled in us—that one day, we will be together again in heaven.

A memorial service will be held at the Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville on September 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., with a time of visitation held one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association https://www.alz.org/ or the American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/.