Nannie R. Walker

Nannie Ruth Walker, affectionately known as "Sis Nan," peacefully entered into her eternal home with her Heavenly Father on Sunday evening, June 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Nannie was born in Windsor, Virginia, on May 4, 1948, to the late George B. Gray and Elsie Weaver Gray. She received her early education at Georgie Tyler Public Schools and earned a bachelor's degree from Norfolk State University in 1972. She dedicated 33 years of her life as an educator at Simonsdale Elementary School in Portsmouth, Virginia.

As a faithful servant of the Lord, Nannie was a pillar of her church community, diligently serving as the Church Clerk and Secretary at Holly Grove African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E) Church for over 60 years. As a devoted church administrator, she also served in a variety of ministry capacities, including a Trustee, Missionary, and Steward Pro-Temp. Her dynamic servant leadership and unwavering dedication to the A.M.E church distinguished her as a highly respected leader within The Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and beyond.

 Her notable life of ministry, leadership, and service, coupled with grace, charm, and poise, was felt by all who encountered her. She touched countless lives across multiple regions with her wisdom, inspiration and compassion, leaving an indelible impact on the entire Holly Grove community, family, and friends. In her spare time, she took pleasure in preserving her church and family historical records. Nannie thoroughly enjoyed outdoor activities such as gardening and fishing. She immensely adored her dogs and loved word and strategy board games. 

She is preceded in death by her daughter, Robin Walker, and her two sisters, Beatrice Ann Gray and Gladys Lawerence. Nannie leaves to cherish her memories, her devoted husband of 61 years, Milton P. Walker, Sr.; two sons, Milton P. Walker, Jr. (Clarissa) and Sherman D. Walker (Ashley). She is also survived by two sisters, Elsie G. Porter of Windsor, Virginia, and Vivian G. Parker of Elberon, Virginia; and two brothers: George Gray Jr. (Lucy) of Windsor, Virginia, and Sherman M. Gray of Richmond, Virginia. She also leaves behind two brothers-in-love, Luther Walker (Virginia) of Smithfield, Virginia, and Robert Walker of Springdale, MD; and two sisters-in-love, Ann Sumler (Michael) of Chesapeake, Virginia, and Mary Greene (James) of Rushmere, Virginia, her 10 grandchildren, four great- grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins, whom she loved dearly.

Nannie was truly a beacon of light and hope to all. Her legacy of steadfast faith and immense virtue will continue to inspire generations, both young and old. Her profound influence will forever be engraved on the canvases of hearts, leaving a lasting impression that will remain with us for a lifetime. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.- 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

On Sunday, June 22, 2025, viewing will take place from 2-5 pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. At 12 pm on Monday, June 23, a Celebration of Life will be held at Holly Grove A.M.E. Church. Please keep the Gray-Walker Family in your thoughts and prayers.