Edith Durden "Edie" Walker

Edith “Edie’ Durden Walker passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024. Born July 2, 1941 to Cleo and Betty Lou Durden in Americus, Georgia, she was a surprise bundle of joy for her parents and older siblings Billy and Betty. Not long after her birth, the family returned to McDonough, Georgia, where Edie spent her formative years. There she enjoyed an idyllic small-town upbringing with a large, loving extended family. Her roots in McDonough instilled in her a deep sense of community and family values, traits she carried throughout her life. In 1959, Edie graduated from Henry County High School and moved to Atlanta to pursue a degree at Georgia Baptist Nursing School. It was during a brief break from school that fate stepped in—her sister and future father-in-law arranged for her to meet Alan Walker. It was love at first sight and after a whirlwind long-distance romance, they eloped in 1963. The couple settled in Atlanta, where Edie began her nursing career at Crawford Long Hospital and Alan worked as an adjuster for Travelers Insurance. They welcomed their first child, Steven Alan, in 1965, followed by their daughter, Barbie Ann, in 1967. As Alan’s job took the family to different cities—Rome, Columbus, Winter Haven, and Jacksonville—they finally settled in Tallahassee in 1970. Tallahassee felt like home with its Southern charm, canopy roads and proximity to the Gulf Coast. Edie continued her nursing career at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, Goodwood Manor, and Southern Medical Group. A gifted nurse, Edie was known for her sharp diagnostic skills and her personable nature. Her patients and colleagues cherished her for both her medical expertise and her consideration. Outside of work, Edie’s talents shone in the home. A master baker, gifted cook, and avid gardener, she created a welcoming and vibrant home life. She and Alan were devoted members of Springtime Tallahassee for over 25 years, hosting countless parties and gatherings with friends. Edie also generously gave her time to volunteer at the Goodwood Museum, particularly in the gardens. Edie’s life was filled with love, family, and service to others. Memories of her grace, humor, and style live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 59 years, Alan, just a day prior to their 60th wedding anniversary. She is survived by son Steven Walker and daughter Barbie (Scott Pressly), grandchildren: Christopher Walker (Christina), Matthew Walker (Dricka); Carden; KJ and Palmer Pressly; great-grandchildren Thea and Aiden Walker. A Celebration of Life service will be held 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at Bevis Funeral Home. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Haven Hospice - Gainesville, Fl., Big Bend Hospice – Tallahassee or your local hospice. Susie Mozolic of Bevis Funeral Home is assisting the family with their arrangements. (www.bevisfh.com or 850-385-2193)

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Edith Durden "Edie" Walker

July 2, 1941 - August 25, 2024