Mary Evelyn Parker


Mary Evelyn Parker was a teacher, editor, and state treasurer of Louisiana. She was the first woman to serve in the office.
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. She studied at Northwestern University and was on its debate team. She taught English and edited the Oakdale Journal before her career in public office. She also worked as a real estate agent.
She narrated gubernatorial candidate Earl Long's speeches on the radio for his campaign in 1948.
She succeeded Andrew Patrick Tugwell, Sr. as Louisiana State Treasurer in 1968. She resigned as State Treasurer in 1987 and Mary Landrieu was elected to succeed her.
She died at her home in Baton Rouge at age 94.