Margaret June Walker

Margaret June Edington Walker, 90, of Abilene, TX, died peacefully at home on September 28, 2023.

A memorial for June will be held at the Hamil Family Funeral Home, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 7, officiated by C.V. Blake of First Baptist Church, Abilene, TX. A celebration of life reception will follow in the upstairs lounge at the Abilene Country Club.

June was born in Quanah, TX to Mary Agnes and James Vaughn Edington on September 24, 1933. She was an Alta Vista Rooster (and she could still recite the school cheer many, many years later). She then graduated from Abilene High School in 1951. June received a Bachelor of Science degree from McMurry College in 1954. During her time at McMurry, June was involved in the T.I.P. women’s social club from 1952-4, the Wah Wahtaysee hostess and service club from 1952-4, Future Teachers of America from 1953-4, and was one of three school cheerleaders during the 1953-54 school year. June went on to earn her Master of Education from McMurry College in 1958. She also earned a reading specialization from Abilene Christian University. June served as a dedicated teacher for 13 years, educating many students in Duncanville, Austin, Texas City, and here in Abilene at Crockett Elementary. June married Dr. James T. Walker on August 25, 1957 at Aldersgate Methodist Church. June and Jimmy went on to enjoy sixty-six years of marriage, love, and dedication to each other. June proudly became the mother of Mary and Margie, and later was promoted to Mimi of Claire, Kate, and Meg Siewert. She served on many boards and organizations, including the Pensadoras, 20th Century Study Club, YWCA, and Medical Alliance. A diligent and devoted wife, mother, educator, and friend, June taught all who knew her what it means to love and be loved. She is fondly remembered as the epitome of class, kindness, and grace. June’s laugh and smile spread joy to the world.

June is survived by her husband, Dr. James T. Walker; daughter Mary Cozette Walker and son-in-law Mark Interrante; daughter Margaret Ann (Margie) and son-in-law Sean Siewert; granddaughters Claire Louise (24), Ella Kate (21), and Margaret Elaine (Meg) (18) Siewert; nieces Linda Edington Wilson and Nicky and Leslie Edington Redfield and Joe; and cousins Molly Westbrook Hill and John, Kenny Dryden, Buddy Dryden, Jane Dryden Louis, Joe and Kaye Price-Hawkins, Sue Siltman and Lue McHan.

June was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Agnes and J.V. Edington; brother, James “Legs” Edington, and sister-in-law, Susan Edington; uncle Sam Hefner “Bud” Dryden and Evelyn; niece Laura Edington Smith and Clinton; and cousin Sam Westbrook and Ila Beth.

The family thanks caregiver Julie Boger, who became a friend to June and her family through countless hours of companionship. As June’s health declined, Julie went above and beyond to provide comfort and compassion. The family recognizes the care and guidance of Dr. Samantha Goodman. The family appreciates Julie Wilson and all the ladies at the Park Terrace Salon for keeping June looking her best for many years. The family also thanks caregivers Donna Manuszak, Mary Fudge, Tammy Brooks, Charlene Balentine, and Michaela Luna. The family wishes to acknowledge Hospice of the Big Country for their invaluable service in a time of great need, especially chaplain Burt Williams and nurses Rachel and Deborah.

Memorial contributions may be made to West Texas Rehab’s Hospice of the Big Country at https://westtexasrehab.org/ and

McMurry University’s T.I.P. Exes Association Scholarship.