Avais Walker

Walker, Avais Evelyn Avais Evelyn Walker passed away August 3, 2020. She was born in Gary, Indiana on April 4, 1927 to her parents, McKinley and Iva Williams. At a young age, the family moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan where she resided for the remainder of her life. Avais attended Kalamazoo Public Schools and graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1945. While on leave from the Army in 1946, James Walker (Bill), swept her off of her feet and asked for her hand in marriage. They remained united until his passing in 2001. They had many great years sharing aspects of life with their friends and families. In the 1960's, they spent a lot of weekends at the resort in Idlewild, Michigan and had many fond memories of the time spent there. Bill and Avais as they were commonly referred to, had 2 children- James Jr. who survives and Linda Ann who passed away in 2007. They were devoted to making sure their kids had what they needed to navigate life. Both Bill and Avais worked for Michigan Bell Telephone Company for many years (ATT). Avais began her career as a switchboard operator and later became a scheduler. She retired in the early 1980's after working 28 years. Avais was one of the lucky ones- she spent more time in retirement than she did working! During those years, Avais was also the caregiver for her mother Iva and her daughter Linda. With boundless energy, she always made sure they had what they needed. Upon retiring, Avais was able to spend more time doing things she loved- gardening, sewing, traveling, being active in neighborhood activities and most of all- going to the casinos! She loved the sounds and the bright lights and was very smart with her strategy. She actually won a lot more than she spent and upon buying something new for her house would always say, "compliments of the casino." Avais was preceded in death by her parents, McKinley and Iva Williams, her brother Marilyn, her husband James (Bill) and her daughter Linda. Surviving to honor and cherish her memory is her son, James and several nieces. A Graveside Memorial will be held at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park (S, Westnedge Avenue) in Kalamazoo on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at 12:00 pm. Family and friends will meet at Harper Funeral Home, 521 Douglas Avenue, (269) 342-1000, at 11:00 a.m. to procession to cemetery. In accordance to Governor's Executive Orders, Mt. Ever-Rest can accommodate (100) people maximum for the outdoor interment. Social distancing and masks will be required if exiting vehicles. A memorial dinner and celebration will be planned in honor and remembrance of Avais at a later date. www.harperfuneral.com