NEW ORLEANS — Longtime Louisiana politician and New Orleans councilmember Jackie Clarkson has died at age 88.
A member of the city council, Joe Giarrusso, confirmed her passing to WWL Louisiana on Wednesday.
Clarkson, mother of award-winning actress Patricia Clarkson and member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1994 to 2002, served on the city council during multiple tenures, including 1990-94, 2002-06 and 2007-2013.
In December 2014, Clarkson was named honorary consul of Lithuania as she had ties to the country due to her grandmother immigrating from the Baltic nation in 1914.
Earlier that year, Clarkson ran for the Algiers-centered City Council District C seat and was defeated by former Civil District Court Judge Nadine Ramsey.
Here's what Clarkson's colleagues are saying following her death:
Helena Moreno, New Orleans City Council President
"I am incredibly saddened to hear we have lost Jackie Clarkson, a dear friend for many years. I first met Jackie while she was on the City Council, and I was just a young media reporter. Throughout her life and career, she was always known for her poise, grace, strength of character, candor—and, of course, her signature red lipstick.
Her commitment to her Algiers community and the people of New Orleans as a whole was always a clear priority during her time in office and even into her retirement. Fearless and determined, she was a trailblazer for all those who came after her, and I will always consider her one of the giants upon whose shoulders I stand.
There have only been a handful of women who have served as New Orleans City Council President, and I will forever be proud to share that distinction with Jackie. More than anything, I am honored to have been able to call her my friend. I send my deepest condolences to her entire family and will keep them in my prayers."
Rep. Steve Scalise, House Majority Leader
“Jackie Clarkson was a dear friend who loved the City of New Orleans, and served at the state and local level with honor. I enjoyed working with her when we passed the Motion Picture Incentives Act in 2000, which created an enduring film industry in our state that thrives to this day. Jennifer and I will keep the Clarkson family in our prayers during this difficult time.”
Nathan Chapman, Vieux Carré Property Owners, Residents and Associates, Inc (VCPORA)
“Jackie, as she was known to most everyone, was as much friend as elected official. If anyone was born to represent District C, it was Jackie, with a grandmother from Algiers and another grandmother from the French Quarter. Growing up, young Jackie Brechtel visited the French Quarter and saw first hand its importance as a wonderful, close-knit neighborhood. As an elected official, she was passionate about protecting the French Quarter. She truly loved it and the people in it.”
Oliver Thomas, New Orleans City Council
"My family is saddened by the loss of one of our greatest public servants and a very good friend of my late father. My tears cannot cloud my memory of her contributions to this city. 1. Preserving the historic French Quarter 2. Fighting for Parks and Recreation for our children and families. And she was Queen of the slogan, ”The Westbank is the Bestbank“ as a Proud Algierian! Rest in Peace Great Lady you can never be replaced."
LaToya Cantrell, New Orleans Mayor
"As Mayor of the City of New Orleans, I am deeply saddened by the passing of Former City Councilmember and State Representative Jacquelyn Brechtel Clarkson. It was an honor for me to serve on the City Council with Jacquelyn, who was one of the most engaging and respected City officials and had a unique way of understanding the needs of our people and how to address them. She was passionate about her family and her work and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the well-being of our community. She was a proud advocate for the New Orleans Recreation Department, significantly enhancing the quality of life for our youth and residents. As a strong supporter of all military branches, Ms. Clarkson was also immensely dedicated to the development and growth of the National WWII Museum. Her dedication and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on the City of New Orleans. She will be greatly missed, and we send our heartfelt prayers to the Clarkson family; may she rest in God's perfect peace."
Rep. Troy Carter, Louisiana Congressman
“Jackie Clarkson was a proud daughter of Algiers, an outspoken supporter of our nation’s armed forces and veterans, and a Louisiana political legend. She was a trail blazer during her service as one of the first women on the New Orleans City Council and Louisiana House of Representatives, and continued her activism even after she left office by supporting the National World War II Museum and the New Orleans Opera. I was proud to work with her on many issues for our community, including preserving the Algiers Ferry, protecting the French Quarter, and expanding access to NORD for children. Jackie was also a loving mother, wife, and a dear friend. I am honored to have known her and my prayers are with her family. May she rest in peace.”
Freddie King, New Orleans City Council
“I extend my deepest condolences to the Clarkson and Brechtel families. Mrs. Clarkson served Algiers and the City of New Orleans with dignity and grace. She was a trailblazer and a courageous leader whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our community. Her commitment to public service and unwavering dedication to the people of New Orleans will be remembered and cherished. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege to know her. She leaves a legacy of leadership and service that will continue to inspire us all.”
Family of Jackie Brechtel Clarkson
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jacquelyn Brechtel Clarkson today following a brief illness. She was surrounded by her family. She loved the people of New Orleans as much as she loved her family. Her legacy of service will be felt for generations to come. Funeral arrangements will be announced soon. We thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Touro Hospital for taking such good care of her."
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