Beloved Winnfield Educator and Community Leader Jane Purser Passes at 92

Purser's lifetime of service and faith celebrated at memorial service on April 11

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:00am

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An abstract, blurred photograph of a church interior, with soft, warm pools of light and color creating a contemplative, spiritual atmosphere.The memorial service for Jane Purser will honor her lifelong commitment to serving her Winnfield community through faith and compassion.Winnfield Today

Jane Claborn Purser, a longtime pillar of the Winnfield, Louisiana community, passed away on March 28, 2026 at the age of 92. Purser's 92 years were defined by a life of quiet grace, unwavering faith, and tireless commitment to serving others through her work with the Rotary Club, Winn Community Food Pantry, and as an educator and counselor.

Why it matters

Purser's legacy of service and Christian ministry touched countless lives in the Winnfield area over the course of her decades-long career and retirement. Her devotion to community organizations and outreach programs, especially to those in need, made her a beloved and respected figure known for her kindness, selflessness, and commitment to 'second chances'.

The details

Throughout her 56-year tenure with the Rotary Club of Winnfield, Purser embodied the organization's 'Service Above Self' motto through her faith-based approach to community service. Her most visible work was at the Winn Community Food Pantry, where she spent her retirement years ensuring neighbors were nourished in body and spirit. Purser also served as a devoted Elder at First Presbyterian Church, where she spearheaded the pre-release program and KAIROS Prison Ministry to offer rehabilitation and redemption.

  • Purser passed away on March 28, 2026 at the age of 92.
  • A celebration of Purser's life will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Winnfield.

The players

Jane Claborn Purser

A longtime pillar of the Winnfield, Louisiana community who dedicated 56 years of service to the Rotary Club and countless hours volunteering at the Winn Community Food Pantry, in addition to her 40-year career as an educator and counselor.

First Presbyterian Church

The church where Purser served as a devoted Elder and where her celebration of life service will be held.

Winn Community Food Pantry

The organization where Purser spent her retirement years ensuring neighbors were nourished in body and spirit.

Rotary Club of Winnfield

The civic organization that Purser served for 56 years, embodying their 'Service Above Self' motto through her faith-based approach to community service.

KAIROS Prison Ministry

The prison ministry program that Purser was involved with, offering rehabilitation and redemption to incarcerated individuals.

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What they’re saying

“Jane's 92 years were a profound testament to the biblical call to love one's neighbor, defined by a life of quiet grace, unwavering faith, and a tireless commitment to serving others.”

— Pastor Lane Thompson, of New Iona Presbyterian Church

What’s next

The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall of First Presbyterian Church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the 11:00 a.m. service on April 11.

The takeaway

Purser's lifetime of service and Christian ministry left an indelible mark on the Winnfield community, inspiring generations through her unwavering commitment to helping others and making a positive difference in the lives of those around her.