Jeanne Parker

Judge Jeanne Parker, 79, of Bell County, Texas, passed away May 19, 2026. Born May 6, 1947, in Norfolk, Virginia, Jeanne was a Navy “brat” who moved often in childhood and graduated from Victoria High School (TX) in 1965. Early in her career she broke ground as one of the first women landmen in Houston’s oil industry before returning to school. She earned a BFA from the University of Colorado in 1992 and a Juris Doctor from Baylor University School of Law in 1993, interning with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas during her legal training. Shortly after law school, Jeanne joined the Bell County Attorney’s Office, beginning in the misdemeanor section and rising to Chief of the Juvenile Section. Just prior to her election to the bench she prosecuted Child Protective Services cases alongside investigators, demonstrating a deep commitment to protecting children. In private practice she spearheaded the Family Law and Criminal Law divisions at Dan Corbin & Associates (2005–2006). From 2006–2007 she served as a legal advisor to the Ministry of Interior Affairs in Afghanistan, working directly in the Presidential Palace—where colleagues affectionately nicknamed her “Combat Barbie.” She also taught Criminal Justice at Temple College and constitutional and business law at the University of Central Texas in Killeen. Jeanne lived for a time in Carmel, California, and later in Evergreen, Colorado, where she designed and built an 8,000sq ft Victorian home that was featured on the cover of Colorado Homes & Lifestyles in 1987. An accomplished artist and watercolorist, Jeanne’s paintings were frequently commissioned by friends and family; she traveled to study her craft and earned certifications in specialized genres. Gifted in interior design, she was a licensed decorator who ran a side business helping others beautify their homes. Elected Judge of County Court at Law No. 1 in 2014 and reelected in 2018, Judge Parker served with distinction until her retirement in 2023. She was active on numerous boards and committees across Bell County and with the Republican Women’s Committee. A devout and Godly woman, Jeanne lived by faith and often encouraged others with her refrain, “If God’s got me, who could be against me?” Remarkably strong and determined, she believed that whatever she set her mind to she could accomplish. Known for her quick, witty humor and generous spirit, Jeanne loved dancing, playing bridge, and delighting family with playful rounds of Mexican dominoes—often insisting on replaying a hand just for the fun of it. She was deeply loved by her family and will be profoundly missed. Jeanne was preceded in death by her father, James William Howard Sr. (“Bill”); her mother, Laura Jean Dauphin; and her sister, Sheila Howard. She is survived by her daughter, Kelley Pierce; granddaughter, Tyler Pierce; grandson, Alexander Pierce; and her brother, James William Howard Jr. (“Bill”), his wife Patsy, and their children Amanda DeMuynck (husband Jeff) and Jacob Howard (wife Megan), as well as numerous well loved relatives. Photo caption for memorial/program: Judge Jeanne Parker — portrait on display at the Bell County Courthouse (photo courtesy of family).

Jeanne Parker

May 6, 1947 - May 19, 2026