cora a. walker love
1928-1978
Life Story
Biography
(July 28, 1928 – March 21, 1978)
Early Life and Family
Cora A. Walker Love was born on July 28, 1928, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Lewis Walker (1884–1963) and Cora Evans Walker (1886–1962). She was raised in the St. John community, where the Walker family maintained strong ties to church, land, and extended kinship networks.
Church Affiliation
At an early age, Cora joined St. John Baptist Church in Newton, Mississippi. Her faith remained an important part of her life, and the church continued to serve as a central place for family worship and community gathering.
Marriage and Children
Cora A. Walker married L. V. Love, and from this union two children were born:
- Lewis Will Love
- Maggie Jean Love (later Mrs. Maggie Jean Carl)
Her role as a mother remained central throughout her life, even as her family became geographically dispersed.
Later Years
In her later years, Cora resided in Pasadena, California, where she continued to maintain close connections with family members across Mississippi, Illinois, Alabama, California, Florida, and Indiana.
Death and Funeral Services
Cora A. Walker Love passed away on March 22, 1978, in Pasadena, California. Funeral services were held on March 26, 1978, at St. John Baptist Church in Newton, Mississippi, with Rev. Purvis Moore, pastor, officiating.
Survivors
She was survived by:
- Two children: Lewis Will Love of Miami, Florida, and Maggie Jean Carl of Mobile, Alabama
- Three brothers: Gladson Walker and Cephus Walker of Joliet, Illinois, and Percy Walker of Pasadena, California
- Three sisters: Orzola Hornsby of Mobile, Alabama; Astoria Moore of Los Angeles, California; and Iley Moore of Newton, Mississippi
- Along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends
Legacy
Cora A. Walker Love’s life reflects the migration patterns of mid-20th-century African American families who maintained deep roots in Newton County while seeking opportunity elsewhere. Her continued connection to St. John Baptist Church and her family’s decision to return her to Newton for burial reflect the enduring importance of place, faith, and kinship within the Walker family.
Resting Place
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- California, U.S., Death Index, 1940-1997
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