Eleanor J. Peden

Eleanor Jane "Nana Jane" Peden, 82, of Pflugerville, Texas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Aug. 13, 2025.

Born in Bartlesville, Okla., she grew up in Benton Harbor and graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1960.

She married Frederick Peden in 1961, and together they raised three children: Jeff, Greg and Mary with a foundation of faith, family and service.

Jane enjoyed a long career with Benton Harbor Area Schools, where she was a beloved presence in the main office and a tireless volunteer. She was a proud Team Mom, chaperone, and Booster Club member – always ready to lend a hand or cheer from the sidelines.

She was a devoted member of Peace Temple United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir and supported youth ministries. Her commitment to serving others extended beyond her career and church. While still working full time, Jane volunteered in hospice care, offering comfort and dignity to patients and families. After retiring to Texas, she continued her commitment to service volunteering at St. David's North Austin Medical Center.

Jane is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and brothers: Robert and Richard Parks. She will be remembered for her faith, compassion, and the joy she brought to everyone she met.

A memorial service will be held at the Cook Walden Capital Parks Funeral Home at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 7, with a visitation followed by a 2 p.m. service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association www.alz.org or the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org.