Ellen B. Kazis-Walker

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ellen Kazis-Walker - the beloved wife of Don Walker, and mother of Rebecca and Ben. Ellen passed away on June 28, 2025, leaving a lasting legacy of love, kindness, and an indelible mark on everyone she touched.

Born on November 21, 1957, in Brookline, Massachusetts, Ellen was the youngest child of Albert and Rose Leah (Etscovitz) Kazis. She grew up alongside her older brothers, Lewis and Joel. Ellen graduated from Tufts University and went on to earn a master's degree in voice from The Juilliard School.

A gifted classical singer, Ellen's love of music began in childhood. She recently recalled falling asleep to the sounds of classical music, a nightly ritual that sparked her lifelong passion for music and the arts. She also described being with her grandfather Harry Kazis as a young child and listening to him play the beautiful sounds on his violin. She said these moments were magical and instilled in her a love of music. After moving to New York and graduating from The Juilliard School, she spent her early career in the music industry.

For over 30 years, Ellen was married to her beloved husband, Don Walker. She was a devoted mother to Rebecca and Ben, who were her pride and joy. Ellen's warmth, generosity, and compassion were evident in every aspect of her life. She was always known for her ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. She worked alongside Don as Managing Director at the Harry Walker Agency, where together they built one of the largest speakers' agencies in the world.

In 2008, as several friends faced grave illnesses, Ellen's deep empathy and spiritual strength inspired her to co-create a "Jewish Renewal Service" with her dear friends at the Westchester Jewish Center. For over a decade, Ellen and her co-leaders led this service, offering comfort, prayer, and community healing, both emotional and spiritual. Through music, meditation, and heartfelt connections, the Renewal Service touched countless lives, embodying Ellen's unwavering commitment to Jewish values.

This past week, Ellen had the joy of celebrating the weddings of her children. Her son Ben married Stella Hermelee on June 22, and on June 26, her daughter Rebecca wed Ryan Klasky. Both occasions were beautiful family celebrations in which Ellen actively participated.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Monday at Congregation B'nai Jeshurun.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ellen's memory to a charity of your choice.

May her memory be a blessing for all.