lula walker
1918-1962
Life Story
Biography
ca. 1918 – May 1962
St. John Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery
Early Life
Lula Walker was born about 1918 in Newton County, Mississippi, to Scott Walker (ca. 1880–1952) and Mary Jane Rigsby Walker (ca. 1880–1950). Raised in the St. John community, she grew up in a large and close-knit family deeply connected to the Walker–Rigsby–Evans heritage.
As a young girl she joined Sylvester M.E. Church in Newton, where she remained active until relocating as an adult.
Education
By 1940, Lula had completed at least one year of college, an uncommon and significant achievement for African American women in rural Mississippi during this period. Her education prepared her for professional teaching work beyond her home county.
Occupation
In 1940, Lula was employed in Ecru, Pontotoc County, Mississippi, where she worked as a government-paid school teacher. Teaching became her lifelong profession.
Later, she moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she continued to work and remained employed until her death. She was a dedicated member of a Methodist church in Milwaukee and known for her faithful service in the congregation.
Death and Burial
Lula passed away in May 1962. Funeral services were held on Sunday, May 6, at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Newton, with Rev. F.W. Moore officiating. Burial followed in the St. John Cemetery, with Mapp Funeral Home directing.
Family
Lula was preceded in death by her parents but leaves a rich family legacy. She is remembered by:
Four sisters:
- Novella Evans, Newton
- Lillie Johnson, Newton
- Alma Wesley, Newton
- Etta Stanley, Milwaukee
Two brothers:
- Melvin Walker, Chicago, Illinois
- Grover Walker, Newton
She also left behind a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends whose lives she touched through her work, kindness, and dedication to service.
Resting Place
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- The Newton Record, Lula Walker Obituary, Wed, May 16, 1962 ·Page 9
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