A fond farewell to Judy Parsons, a NTMN stalwart who is moving with her husband to San Antonio to be closer to grandkids.

“Judy was the quiet person working tirelessly behind the scenes of many NTMN efforts,” says Ellen Guiling, “with the Junior Master Naturalist program and the Coppell Biodiversity Education Center as two focus areas. As president, she was a calm and level-headed leader. She was very supportive of all efforts to grow and strengthen our chapter.”

“Working with Judy to develop the Junior Master Naturalist program as a collaboration between the Perot Museum and NTMN has certainly been a highlight in my career and life,” says Jessica Crowley. “Judy’s enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and engaging with nature is what makes her such an extraordinary educator.  I know she will continue to share her love of the outdoors with the lucky folks in San Antonio.  She will definitely be missed in Dallas!  Best of luck Judy!”

John Pauley concurs: “Judy has been a great mentor, encourager and friend to me and many others since I became a TMN. Many times I have witnessed the incredible way she works with children and the Junior Master Naturalist program. She has left a big impact on the Coppell community and she will truly be missed. Thank you, Judy!”

“I will always be grateful to Judy for helping Jessie get the Junior Master Naturalist program started at the Perot Museum,” says Tim Brys. “I learned a lot through the program myself, met a lot of really excellent people and we all touched a lot of lives through it. I’m glad to have met Judy and gotten to work with her as long as I did. I’ll miss having her nearby.“

Judy was a big part of the Junior Master Naturalist program expanding to the Biodiversity Education Center in Coppell. “Judy has been a wonderful mentor to me for both the North Texas Master Naturalists and Coppell Nature Park programs,” says Christine Wordlaw. “I am inspired by her amazing teaching abilities during programs for children and admire her for her patience and guidance with teaching me how to be a better educator as well.”

Cynthia Contreras, Education Coordinator for the Biodiversity Education Center, elaborates: “Judy Parsons served on the Friends of Coppell Nature Park board since its inception. Her vision, passion, and ongoing commitment helped bring Coppell Nature Park and the Biodiversity Education Center into reality. She helped establish the Junior Master Naturalist program at the BEC in 2018. Coppell Nature Park is covered by Judy’s footprints, and her departure will leave a huge void. Yet, as with any healthy ecosystem, I anticipate other Naturalist in the community will fill this void in their own creative ways!”

“I have enjoyed working with Judy as a fellow volunteer on the Junior Master Naturalist Program for five years,” says Stalin SM. “She is extremely passionate in connecting kids with nature. She is meticulous in helping setup the class. She makes sure that everything needed to keep the kids comfortable and engaged are taken care of. At the end of the class she is often the last person wiping down the tables and organizing the supplies back into their closets. This is the best thing I will take away from my time with Judy: There is more work behind the screen that goes into running a smooth and effective nature program than what meets the eye. On a personal level, she is always cheerful and pleasant to talk to. I wish her all the very best. We will miss her.” 

“Thank you Judy for your work to establish the Junior Master Naturalists programs and for your service to the North Texas Master Naturalist chapter,” says Laura Kimberly. “You provided leadership and boots on the ground. Our insect habitat reconnaissance hike at LLELA preparing for the Junior’s entomology field trip was one example—and such fun to boot (in our boots). I enjoyed volunteering with you and appreciate all your encouragement. All the best to you!”

Linda Donnelly wraps it up: “Judy, it has always been such a pleasure working with you. Your positive attitude and beautiful smile will be missed!” 

Hats off from every at NTMN to Judy Parsons. Enjoy this slide show, compiled by Stalin SM, of Judy in action.