Mary Jane Walters

Mary Jane Walters, a retired state employee and longtime resident of Baton Rouge, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 12, 2020 in Pineville, LA at the age of 91. Mary Jane was born on March 12, 1929 in Shreveport to Andrew Charles Lark and Viola O’Neal Lark. She spent most of her childhood on the family farm near Springhill, LA and was valedictorian of her senior class.

While attending LSU Baton Rouge, Mary Jane served on the Mortar Board and as president of Associated Women Students. She obtained a B.S. degree in Home Economics in 1950. LSU was also where she met the love of her life, Artis William “Bill” Walters. They were married for 54 years and had three children.

Mary Jane’s career was always in service to others, from schoolteacher, welfare visitor, to employment counselor. Her work ethic and dedication were recognized by the Louisiana chapter of the International Association of Personnel in Employment Security by awarding her their annual Merit Award in 1977. She was a devoted wife and the most caring mother and grandmother. She loved sewing, cooking and being a member of First United Methodist Church. In retirement, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and fishing with Bill on Toledo Bend.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Ray Lynn Walters of Baton Rouge; sister, Annie Charlene Myers of Frierson; and step-grandson, Jason Young of St. Gabriel. She is survived by her sister, Lucille Basham of Bossier City; two daughters and sons-in-law, Jeannine and Richard Broadwell of Alexandria and Marilyn and Jeff Young of St. Gabriel; four grandchildren (Jennifer, Ryan, Michael and Britny); two great-grandchildren (Annabel and Joseph); and two step-great-grandchildren (Kelsey and Gunner).

Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at Resthaven Funeral Home and Gardens of Memory, 11817 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA from 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM. A celebration of life and burial will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church, 930 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.