Marolyn Janice Walker

Marolyn Janice Johnson Walker found her place in the choir of Angels on June 4, 2026. Born May 31, 1942, Marolyn affectionately known as Ba, Grand-Ba, Jan, Janabelle, Mama-Walk, or Mommy, leaves a humble yet profound legacy from a life well lived.

Born in Wilton, Arkansas and raised in Bakersfield, California, Marolyn was a lover of creation, be it music, stories, or performances, curated by her and/or starring her. Marolyn went on to make this a huge part of her life along with her faith and love of family. She married Leo Walker and embraced the beauty and sanctity of motherhood and marriage. Through this union, her beautiful children, Lyle Erric, Darin Leo, and Lei Gwynette were received with joy, adoration and faith in God’s love that would stand the test of time. The impactful loss of Darin empowered her passion for extending grace and comfort to those troubled by life and/or grief. Through her impassioned efforts to sow blessed seeds through her faith, a fruitful tree of life was granted with many branches through her grandchildren, [Erric, sp. Ann] Jamar, Jared, Jacquelyn, (sp. Noah), [Lei] David (sp. Shamika), Eleia (sp. Jayson), Jaelyn, Jaron and Great grandchildren Nyah, Cedric, Nehemiah, Valor and Josiah.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without the fear of the future.”

Proverbs 31:25

Marolyn’s legacy also includes significant trailblazing achievements, not only through her career, but personal gifts and hobbies. Namely she was the first Black bank teller at Bank of America in Bakersfield, California in 1967. She went on to work at Montgomery Ward Finance followed by approximately 30 years at Pacific Bell, breaking barriers along the way in the field of Engineering. It was there that after all her work accomplishments, she gracefully retired to enjoy her favorite things to do and bring joy to others through song and performance.

“Commit your work to the Lord and your plans will be established.”

Proverbs 16:3

As a world class songstress that preserved the majority of her gift for church performances, Marolyn enjoyed acting, performing and directing church plays, and joining the ensemble for other theatrical endeavors such as Porgy and Bess and a Raisin in the Sun. She performed at church with Golden voices of Triumph, St. John’s Baptist Church Adult Choir, Joy and Saint Paul MBC, which allowed her to share her gift of song with many. She was also notably the voice of Mighty Mouse’s girlfriend in a few aired episodes, as well as other commercials locally and providing mentorship to other students of the Arts.

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

1 Corinthians 10:31

Some of the greatest impact Marolyn produced was through her mentorship and community efforts. She had a deep and overflowing faith and belief that caused her to laugh often and taught us that a good song, good prayer, and good hygiene could get you through anything. Throughout her career and retirement Marolyn was a highly sought and respected vocal coach for both local and national artist. Many thanks to the late great Mary Patterson who invited Marolyn to serve as Talent Coordinator for the Black history pageant, which was a joy and pleasure for her. She became the example and motivation for others to find their voice by learning from her ability to embody the spirit; which could move a room or a single soul and call them to grace as needed.

“Let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Matthew 5:16

In her spare time, you could find Marolyn reading or enjoying movies and plays. You could always find Marolyn well dressed and accessorized including unique and ever-changing fragrances due to her keen knowledge and appreciation for scents. She often found joy in traveling to experience new things, even though she often found herself lost (a trait inherited by her granddaughter Eleia 😊), but somehow always ended up in the right place. Through her many life triumphs and lessons, she persevered with tenacity, gumption, and faith-based confidence that all would end well. As a survivor of domestic violence and Cancer, her resilience has been an example and beacon of hope for all those who knew her.

"The time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:6–7

About a month prior to her transition, while speaking with a fellow resident at the senior facility, Jan was asked what she wanted for her birthday; she shared that she was “going home.” A small gathering was held for her 84th birthday to celebrate her life. It was attended by family and friends that visited and called to share their love and appreciation. A few days prior, her daughter asked what she wanted for her special day. She gently replied, “I am going to sleep” and that she did. On her own terms, she fell into a dream and woke up in the arms of the Lord. She was preceded in death by her Parents Grady R. Johnson and Lucy Johnson; Child Darren Walker; Siblings Grady Johnson, Raymond Johnson, Gwendolyn Carr; Niece Steffanie Carr; former Husband Leo Walker; and former son in law Derrell Marshall.

“Then we who are alive, who are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so we will always be with the Lord.”

1 Thessalonians 4:17

The family would like to take this opportunity to express their sincere gratitude to those whose kindness, support, and compassion brought comfort and meaning to Jan’s final days:

• The dedicated staff at Riverstone Terrace Senior Assisted Living

• Hoffman Hospice

• Barbara Williams

• Barletha Barefield

• Linda Banks

• Rev. Oscar Anthony

• Theresa Johnson

Each of you played a special role in caring for Jan, and your presence will never be forgotten.

Erric and Lei would also like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Ann Marie, Aunt Pat, Uncle Roger and Aunt Karen. Your love, support, and willingness to step in during such a difficult time meant more than we can express—truly, without you, this would have been almost impossible.