Mary Evelyn Parker (November 28, 1920 – January 17, 2015) was an American education, newspaper editor, and politician who served as the Treasurer of Louisiana from 1968 to 1987. She was the first woman to serve in the position.
Early life and education
Mary Evelyn Dickerson was born in Fullerton, Louisiana. Her father, Racia Dickerson, worked at a saw mill and her mother, Addie née Graham Dickerson, was a homemaker.[1] She studied at Northwestern State University, where she competed on the debate team.[2]
Career
She taught English and edited the Oakdale Journal before her career in public office.[2] She also worked as a real estate agent.[3]
She narrated gubernatorial candidate Earl Long's speeches on the radio for his campaign in 1948.
She succeeded A. P. Tugwell as Louisiana State Treasurer in 1968. She resigned as State Treasurer in 1987 was succeeded by Mary Landrieu.
Death
She died at her home in Baton Rouge at age 94.[1]
References
- ^ a b "Mary Evelyn Parker, longtime Louisiana treasurer, dies at age 94 | News | theadvocate.com". www.theadvocate.com.
- ^ a b "First woman elected as Louisiana treasurer dies at 94". WAFB.
- ^ Mark Ballard. "Political Horizons: Souped-up treasurer post is up for grabs". NOLA.com.