Ernestine T. Walker

Deacon Pat was born on July 31, 1936, to Ernest Tims and Lettie B. Tims, now both deceased. She met Deacon Hubbard Douglas Walker Sr. in high school, where he was a track star, and she was the first black captain of the cheerleading squad. They were married 5 months after graduation in 1954. They were married for 64 years and raised 5 children.

When Deacon Pat was 48 years old, she went back to school to pursue a college degree. She attended Vermont College of Norwich University and obtained a bachelor's degree in fine arts in 1989. One of the things that made this adventure so special was the fact that every weekend, along with her dear friend Barbara Garron, they went back and forth to Vermont for 2 years. Rain, snow, sleet, heat waves, nothing kept them from achieving their goals.

Professionally, Pat worked for the city of Danbury, CT in the Action office advocating for the underprivileged to provide with equal housing and adequate nutritional services. She was at work when the Black Panthers came into the city to bomb the banks and city hall. She helped with the de-escalation of that situation. She was in Washington on the mall when Dr. King delivered his "I have a Dream "speech. She's pictured walking holding hands with Aunt Lucy. A very proud moment in her life.

The family relocated to Springfield, MA and then Framingham, MA. Pat worked for Digital Equipment for a few years. She left to take the position of publication distribution manager for Computer World and IDG company. Pat traveled all over the united States and internationally facilitating the distribution of their publications at Expo's conventions and conferences. She retired from IDG and began to care for the babies of many members of this church.

When the family settled in Framingham the search for a church began. Pat and Hubbard found Greater Framingham Community Church and immediately became members. Pat was a very active and enthusiastic participant in many church activities. Pat sang in the senior choir, the gospel chorale, a member of the Women's Christian fellowship, held the position as church clerk and became an ordained Deacon as one of the magnificent seven.

Deacon Pat was a devoted woman of God. She was a loving compassionate, praying, deacon forever in service to her care group and our congregation.

Deacon Pat loved her friends and family. She loved games (Anita), going out on day trips to eat (Tina), cookouts and family gatherings (Edna), traveling be it 2 days or 2 weeks (Barbara). The time spent with her family was precious. Most of all she loved the Lord, all her trust and faith was in Him. Now she is at rest, home with dad and God her Father in heaven. All is well!

Deacon Ernestine T. Walker is preceded in death by her husband Deacon Hubbard Douglas Walker Sr. and her son Hubbard Douglas Walker Jr. (Dougie). She is survived by 4 children, Lisa R. Cargill (Stanley), of Worcester, MA, Britt Walker(Jessica), of Neeces, SC, Dionne Walker (Cheri), of Worcester, MA, Eric Walker (Elizabeth) of Sutton, MA. Eight grandchildren, Leah Duran(Marcel), Ashley Nardello(Chris), Britt Walker, Dean Walker (Jessica), Jordan Walker, Alex Walker, and Lettirose Cargill. Seven great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.