Manetta Lancaster Walker

Mrs. Manetta Lancaster Walker was born in Edwards, Mississippi, on September 4, 1923, to Clarence Napoleon Lancaster and Courtney Trotter Lancaster. Manetta was raised in a loving family alongside her brother, Clarence Napoleon Lancaster, Jr., affectionately known as "Uncle Jr." She began her educational journey at the Southern Christian Institute (SCI) in Edwards, Mississippi where she graduated in 1945. She went on to graduate from Rust College in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education.

Mrs. Walker dedicated 26 years of her life to teaching in the Mississippi school system, shaping and inspiring generations of students with her wisdom and compassion. On June 10, 1945, she married the love of her life, Thomas Nelson Walker, in her hometown of Edwards, MS. They enjoyed 38 years of marriage and family. Together, they were devoted servants of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), where Mrs. Walker served faithfully as an elder, a deacon, and prayer partner to many members including United Christian Church Pastor, Rev. Russell H. Myers.

Mrs. Walker's legacy lives on through her daughters: Annie Alverta Walker Swindell, who was born on the campus of Jarvis Christian College, and the late Margaret Louise Walker Mayes, who was born on the campus of Jackson State University. Manetta was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Clarence and Courtney Lancaster; her brother, Clarence Lancaster, Jr., her husband, Rev. Thomas N. Walker, her daughter, Margaret Louise Walker Mayes; and her grandson, Richard L. Mayes, Jr.

She is survived by her loving and devoted daughter, Annie Alverta Walker Swindell (James); seven adoring grandchildren, James W. Swindell, Jr. (Mary), Thomas E. Mayes (Jean), Angel M. Swindell Nix (Derrick), James Tucker Swindell II (Comfort), James Thomas Walker Swindell (Justine), James Isaac Swindell, and James W. Young (Tiffany); and fifteen precious great-grandchildren: Thomas Mayes, Jr., Jadcalla Mayes, Janneke Mayes, Derrick B. Nix, Jr., James W. Swindell, III (J3), Courtney A. Nix, Josiah Young, James Neal Swindell, Maria J. Nix, Elaine Swindell, Derrick Sean P. Nix, Jameson Young, James Caleb Swindell, Autumn M. Swindell, and Nolan T. Swindell.

Mrs. Walker experienced a peaceful sunset on March 18, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Funeral services will be held at Temple Memorial Baptist Church in High Point, NC. Interment will follow at Garden Memorial Park in Jackson, Mississippi, where Mrs. Walker will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Rev. Thomas N. Walker.

Mrs. Walker's favorite song "What a Friend We Have In Jesus" embodies the life she lived and inspired others to live. Her steadfast faith, commitment to education, and devotion to her family and community have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.