Jane Parker

Obituary of Jane M. Parker

With great sorrow, we announce Jane M. (Burden) Parker, our extraordinary mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on April 8, 2023, in Englewood, Florida, at the age of 80.

Jane was born on January 5, 1943, in Boston, Massachusetts, the daughter of the late Daniel H. Burden and Celine Marie (Comeau) Burden, who emigrated from Nova Scotia to find new opportunities. She grew up part of a big, loving family in the Dorchester and Weymouth neighborhoods of the Greater Boston Area. Jane graduated from Weymouth High School in 1961. 

Jane eloped with Warren J. Parker shortly after graduation on November 10, 1961. Together, they moved to Quincy, then Brockton, Massachusetts, where they raised their three children, Tracey, Scott, and Pamela. Jane was a devoted mother and wife and the foundation of her family. She kept a warm, pristine home filled with the joys of everyday life and many wonderful holiday celebrations, including her phenomenal, home-cooked spreads that we all looked forward to. Unforgettable family favorites were her macaroni and cheese and freshly baked bread. 

While caring for her three children, Jane pursued and achieved a Licensed Practical Nursing degree from Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical Institute in Easton, Massachusetts. Then, she began her lifelong career of caring and fiercely advocating for patients.

Jane was known for her sharp wit, dry humor, and steadfastness. She did not mince words; you never had to guess her thoughts. Jane was an insightful listener and offered honest advice, telling us what we needed to hear, even when it might be difficult. Although she fussed greatly over her loved ones, she never wanted any fuss made over her. She showed her love significantly through extraordinary acts of selflessness, more so than with words. Through family struggles, Jane was the calm in the storm's center, keeping her composure, dignity, and grace, always providing a haven for her loved ones when they needed it most. Her iron will and inner strength were unmatched in her painful battle against Multiple Sclerosis, a disease she struggled with privately for much of her life but never let define her.

After their children were grown, Jane and Warren moved to Venice, Florida, to begin a new chapter. It was during that time, in 1992, when Jane, a lifelong learner, achieved an Associate's Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) from the University of the State of New York and became a Registered Nurse. She served as Care Plan Manager and Training and Staff Development Coordinator at Manorcare Health Services in Venice for several years. She was known for mentoring and inspiring young nurses under her wing.

In her spare time, Jane loved music, theater, reading, and going to her favorite restaurants. She enjoyed life's simple pleasures like a good cup of coffee and sunsets over the ocean.


Jane and Warren were married for 41 years. Friends and family knew them to be dynamic and fun, hosting wonderful gatherings. Warren often took center stage with his charm and charisma, while Jane did all the small, less noticeable things that made everyone feel at home. She would sit back smiling and listening, only to pipe up with a spirited joke or sarcastic jab at the right time to make everyone laugh. When Warren got sick, Jane uncomplainingly and devotedly cared for him during his final years while working full-time and managing household affairs.

Later, during retirement, Jane gave her time volunteering as a Guardian Ad litem advocating tirelessly for the legal interests of Florida's dependent children. She also met Kenneth Figgins of Englewood, Florida, with whom she spent over a decade. Ken introduced Jane to the Polynesian Village community, where she met new friends, participated in local activities, and eventually moved into her own home. Ken and Jane traversed America and Europe and spent summers in Narragansett, Rhode Island. Jane fondly recalled their many adventures together. We are grateful for all the happiness Ken brought Jane in the later years of her life.

In addition to her husband, Warren J. Parker, Jane is preceded in death by her daughter Pamela Parker Picone, as well as her older siblings George W., Elaine, and Daniel Jr. Jane is survived by her children Tracey and Scott Parker, her older sister Lorraine, her younger siblings Paulette and Neil, her grandchildren Michael David Picone and Jayd Marie Jackson, and her great-grandchild Maddox David Picone.

We are grateful that our beloved Jane M. Parker is at peace. We will remember her lifelong commitment to caring and the difference she made in the lives of others. She set the highest bar of what it means to overcome struggle in the face of adversity. Jane M. Parker lived on her terms with grace, strength, a sense of humor, and deep, unwavering love for her family. Farley Funeral Home in Venice is handling the arrangements.  A message of condolence may be sent by visiting www.farleyfuneralhome.com.

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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Farley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Venice
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