Tribute & Message From The Family
Dr. Pamela Lorraine Parker, born July 6, 1947, died May 26 at the age of 67 from complications of a MRSA infection contracted at Thornton Hospital in San Diego, CA. Born in Shreveport, LA, of Newton O.J. Parker and Gladys Annette Harrelson (aka Annette May), Pamela was a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana, Lafayette, and Rice University, Houston. Pamela taught English at colleges & universities in three states over three decades: North Harris Community College - Houston, TX, University of North Texas - Denton, TX, College of Charleston – Charleston, SC, and Georgia Perimeter College - Lawrenceville, GA. She was academically published in the field of Southern Literature, specializing on writers such as Shirley Ann Grau and Kate Chopin.
Pam was someone to whom one could talk about anything: spiritual, political, literary, cinematic, musical, historical, traveling, etc. Although educated and serious, Pamela always maintained a child-like spirit with an infectious smile and laugh. She loved a good book, a good old movie and decorating for any holiday, often greeting friends and acquaintances with a little gift (a "sussy"). Pamela's students meant life to her, and her spirit will live on through them. She is survived by her husband Shawn Glisson of San Diego, CA. Pamela's final resting place and memorial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, 130 Stoner Ave., Shreveport, LA.
Condolence & Memory Journal
A very dear and lovely Southern lady. I worked with her at Georgia Perimeter, and always enjoyed talking with her. I'm saddened to learn of her passing. My sympathy to her husband and friends.
Posted by
Kip Cates August 03, 2015
I met Pam in 1978 when I moved to Houston and into her neighborhood. Over the years we have had many laughs, trips and good times. She taught me the Pam way to decorate which is to hang as much stuff on the walls as possible! I still do that. We never passed a cute specialty shop, antique mall or decoration store that we didn't go in and most often buy beautiful things neither of us needed. We justified that by buying the gifts for each other. I believe we helped keep the decoration business afloat since we bought for every conceivable holiday and celebration. On our many road trips, we were known for taking the blender with us for daiquiris.
I believe she is in heaven acting as a guardian angel for those of us still here and I know she's happy to be with all her beloved dogs.
She was kind, caring and loved to laugh and I miss that but I'm comforted knowing that she is pain free and at peace.
See you down the road and I'll bring the blender!
Janie
Posted by
Janie Stedman - Plano, TX June 25, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss, Shawn. It sounds like Pamela touched so many lives with her smile, laughter, spirit, and determination. What an inspiration!
We are never ready to loose our loved ones, Shawn, but treasure your many wonderful memories, knowing that Pam was so very special.
Sending you my love and prayers during this sad time, Patti
Posted by
Patti Walters - Timonium, MD - friend of her late Uncle Joseph June 22, 2015
Pam and I were in the play, " The Curious Savage" our senior year at Woodlawn High School. She played Fairy May and was terrific. The week she became ill and passed away, I was directing the same play at Back Alley Theatre in Grand Cane, La.
Posted by
Michele Abington-Cooper - Keatchie, LA - friend June 19, 2015
I was sad to receive the news of Pamela's passing. She was a delightful spirit and carried the gift of humor at all times. She will be sorely missed by her Lafayette, Louisiana friends.
Posted by
Dennis Ward - Opelousas, LA - friend June 19, 2015
Met Pamela when she was finishing up her doctorate in Houston... Lived in same apartment complex and we (partner and I) became close friends along with Janie ..Always the beautiful smile...RIP Pam
Posted by
Roger Rother - Houston, TX - friends for 38 years.... June 19, 2015
