Naomi Wassene Walker

Mrs. Naomi Wassene Johnson Walker (lovingly known as "Dear") made her grand entrance into the eternal golden gates of Heaven on April 8, 2021.  Naomi was born on June 9, 1927 to her loving parents, Beatrice Handy and Samuel L. Johnson in Amite County, Mississippi. She grew up in Muskogee, Oklahoma with her sister Hazel who proceeded her in death in December of 2009.

She studied nursing and it was believed she was the first black nurse and supervisor at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Oklahoma City.On April 28, 1961, she married Rev. J.B. Walker and they had one child: a son Jay Bernard Walker.  Once married “Dear” also known as “Aunt Naomi” took up her role as a minister’s wife and First Lady with grace and dignity.  She served as a wonderful First Lady to many churches in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Conference, including Mother Liberty, in Jackson, Tennessee. She also served and was a faithful member of St. Mary’s CME Church for many years.  She led the Minister Spouses of the CME Conference as President and a faithful member.  She made contributions to that organization well until the final years of her life.  She was also a member of the Missionary Society.  She was a blessing to so many in the church and would often say “There ain’t no family like a good church family.” 

As a woman who lost her mom at a young age, “Aunt Naomi” became a natural nurturer who often welcomed children into her home. She would be the caretaker for many as their parents worked, including several of her great nieces and nephews. They often talk about growing up at “Aunt Naomi’s” and the fun memories they had with her. She believed in taking care of herself and was known to walk miles around her neighborhood daily. She would often take the children on those walks, using her sharp mind and intellect to teach them all about life and its’s wonders.

She loved her family and would give her last dime to someone in need, especially if they were a family member.  She would host many family meals and gatherings at her home, featuring her legendary homemade recipes and fine china. She was a kind, loving and gentle spirit who will be miss tremendously.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, Jay B. Walker, (wife Michelle) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and church family members.

God saw the road was getting rough, the hills were hard to climb. He gently closed those loving eyes and whispered, “Peace be Thine.” The weary hours, the days of pain, the sleepless nights are passed. The ever patient worn out frame has found sweet peace at last-Author Unknown

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