September 21, 1934 ~ July 12, 2024 (age 89)
Sylvia Ann (Williams) Walker September 21, 1934 – July 12, 2024 Mrs. Sylvia Ann Williams Walker, of Whiteville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 12, 2024, with her sons, and daughter-in-law, at her bedside in Raleigh. Across her 89 years, she followed her faith, blessing those around her, while personifying Proverbs 31.
Sylvia was born in Henderson, NC, the daughter of Carl Graham Williams and Annie Ayscue. She pursued education, earning a double major at Salem College, before attending Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, where she met Roy E. Walker.
Theirs was a match, literally, made in heaven, where she became the consummate pastor’s wife, supporting Roy, and serving at churches from Alabama to Kentucky. They eventually settled in Whiteville North Carolina, where they raised their boys, Edward and Carl, she earned a master’s degree at East Carolina University, and the couple became community leaders.
Sylvia touched the lives of thousands of students, working as a counselor at Southeastern Community College for almost two decades. She also served as President of the Whiteville Aza Mellia Chapter of the Garden Club of North Carolina, President of the Whiteville Civic League, President of the North Carolina Baptist Minister’s Wives, and deacon at First Baptist Church of Whiteville.
Upon retirement, Sylvia and Roy dedicated themselves to spending time with their grandchildren, Kiley and Shane. In their eyes, “Gammie” could do no wrong. Despite protests from Carl and his wife Stephanie, she granted the children’s every wish. Upon Roy’s passing in 2015, Sylvia continued to visit the children in Greenville, SC, as well as pursue her passions that included Bible study, travel, bridge, the Tennis Channel, shopping for a deal, and reading.
Sylvia goes to her grave with her secret, memorized recipes for lasagna and yeast rolls. If you try to figure out how to make either, she’d share, “Be sure to add a little sugar.” Her sweet and generous heart will be missed by all.
Sylvia Ann’s funeral service will be at 1pm Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at First Baptist Church Whiteville. Burial will follow at Whiteville Memorial Cemetery. Edward, Carl and Stephanie will be honored to visit with friends 6-8pm Monday, July 15, at Peacock Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Whiteville, in 412 N. Madison St., or the Boys & Girls Home of North Carolina, 400 Flemington Dr., Lake Waccamaw, NC, 28450
