Shirley Hester Parker

Shirley Hester Parker, a lifelong resident of New Orleans, passed away on March 23, 2026, in Harahan, Louisiana, at the age of 84. Born in New Orleans on February 9, 1942, Shirley was the beloved daughter of Earl and Bessie Nickens. She shared a beautiful and devoted marriage with her loving husband, Daniel W. Parker III, for 65 years until his passing in 2023. Shirley was a devoted and loving mother to David Parker, Sr. (Mary), James “Jimmy” Parker, Sr. (Lisa), Stephen Parker, Daniel W. Parker IV (preceded in death), and Michael Parker, Sr. (Michelle). She was the heart of her family and took immense pride in raising her children and nurturing a close-knit family. She is also survived by her cherished siblings: Dorothy Ducote (Terri), Yvonne Pichoff (preceded in death by Randy), and Calvin “Dean” Nickens (Shari). She was preceded in death by her brothers Joseph “Joe Joe” Nickens and Melvin Nickens (Sissy). Shirley was a proud grandmother to David Parker, Jr., Chad Parker, Brittany Forcha, Alicia Kiefer, Melissa Boudreaux, James Parker, Jr., Ashton Mayer, Michael Parker, Jr., and Dillon Parker. She was further blessed with great-grandchildren Scarlett Kiefer, Shaw Kiefer, Alexis Parker, Cypress Boudreaux, Miley Boudreaux, James Parker III, Daniel Parker, Luke Parker, Isabella Parker, and Hazel Parker, with the joyful anticipation of welcoming Joshua, Jr. in June. Shirley lived life with energy and joy. She was an avid skier and found great happiness spending time at the family camp in Prairieville, Louisiana, where many cherished memories were made with loved ones. She was also a dedicated member of the Parents & Friends Club of Belle Chasse State School for handicapped children, where her son Daniel IV attended. Through her involvement, she helped organize countless events, including Christmas parties, Mardi Gras Balls, Easter celebrations, fairs, and more—bringing joy and support to many families in the community. Family and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Services on Monday, March 30, 2026, at L.A. Muhleisen Funeral Home, 2607 Williams Blvd, Kenner, Louisiana. Visitation from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 am. Interment will take place at Ficklin Cemetery in Galvez, Louisiana. The family would like to extend special thanks to Heart of Hospice for helping care for Shirley, and Noel and her team at Gen Care. Shirley will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.muhleisen.com

Tributes

Shirley Hester Parker

February 9, 1942 - March 23, 2026