Former New Orleans City Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson dies at 88

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Former city council member and state representative Jackie Clarkson has died at the age of 88.

Clarkson was a resident of Algiers, a community in which she served and represented as councilwoman over District C in the early ’90s. She will also be remembered as a wife and a mother.

Clarkson lost her bid for re-election to Troy Carter but ended up as a state representative after winning Carter’s former seat, demonstrating a rivalry, which Carter says they were later able to put aside.

“We were opponents, but we ended up becoming very good allies later. When I went to the city council, she replaced my seat in the legislature. We then put our swords aside, and we joined forces to fight for the Algiers Ferry, to fight for the French Quarter, to fight for NORD, to fight for those things that were near and dear to the people that we jointly represented. Jackie will be sorely missed,” said Carter.

Clarkson is survived by her daughter, Patricia Clarkson.

Clarkson’s death was met with many condolences from several council members, as well as New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

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. 

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell

The president of the New Orleans City Council, Helena Moreno, also released a statement.

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.

New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno

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