May 22, 1937 – May 13, 2024
Adassa Walker, loving daughter of Papa Walker and Pearl Currie, was born on May 22nd, 1937 in Madras, Jamaica, West Indies. At her birth, she was a one-pound preemie, and was not expected to survive the week. However, she persevered, and the next month, she was officially registered on June 20th 1937. A tradition was started long ago, of celebrating both of her birthdays each year, and this tradition continued until her passing. She was always a fighter, and despite the many ailments that plagued her throughout the years, she never gave up and she always gave thanks to God, for whatever good health she had. She passed away peacefully on May 13, 2024, in San Jose, CA , after a long battle with cancer, diabetes, COPD, & vascular dementia. Though she fought long and hard, she said that when God was ready to call her home, that she was ready. She was known for always saying “It Is Well With My Soul.”
Lil Miss Walker bravely left Jamaica, and came to the United States in 1958, at the tender age of 21 years old. Her intent was to become a missionary in either Africa or South America. She studied at Carver Bible Institute in Atlanta, Georgia, where she excelled in all areas of study. It was at this time, that she met the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. One of her fondest memories of Dr. King, was that on occasion, when he would greet her, he would say.. “Oh, where angels fear to tread, there goes Sister Walker.” She was fearless when it came to striving for justice and equality for all, & often said that no matter the color of our skin, that we are all God’s children.
In 1960, she moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana and attended St. Francis University. She studied tirelessly and worked as a teacher’s aide, among other positions. She had a well-rounded attitude, and said that she worked to feed her body, studied to feed her mind, and worshipped to feed her soul. She received her Bachelor’s degree, as well as a Master’s degree, and graduated with honors.
On July 4th 1969, she arrived in California on what some might call a whim. During graduation, she was sitting next to her friend and fellow student. She asked her where she was heading after graduation, and her friend said that she was going to California. In that moment, Miss Walker felt a divine calling and she said..”I’m going to go, where you’re going”. She arrived in Palo Alto on Independence Day, 1969..and she remained there until July 1st 2021, when she moved to San Jose, CA, to be cared for by her family.
Miss Walker received her Lifetime Teaching Credential in 1971, and worked as a 3rd Grade teacher in the Ravenswood School District until her retirement. She dedicated her life to educating young minds (& souls) & was passionate about helping children reach their full potential. She made a lasting impact on countless lives. In 1972, She gave birth to her one & only child, a girl born at Stanford Hospital.
In her free time, Adassa enjoyed singing, reading the Bible, cooking, gardening, and sewing. She had a beautiful voice that brought comfort to those who heard her sing. Her faith and devotion to God were evident in everything she did.
Miss Adassa Walker is survived by her loving daughter, Laurelle Gilbreath and future son-in-law, Javier Velez, as well as numerous brothers & sisters, nieces, nephews, & cousins. She was a Grand Godmother to 3 sweet angels..Jaden, Marcas & Shay..as well as a Grandmother to Fur Babies Remy & Elsa..(who rarely left her side). She brought light, joy & wisdom to her family & friends.
Adassa will be remembered for her kind heart, unwavering faith, and gentle spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will continue to inspire those who knew her. She was and will always be, a blessing to all.
A memorial service will be planned later this year. If you would like details in regards to attending the memorial, sending flowers, or giving a donation to one of Mommy’s favorite charities, please contact [email protected].
God Bless You, Always & Forever.