Wilma Jean Walker

Wilma Jean Walker (“Jean”), age 90, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, in El Cajon. She will be lovingly remembered by her cherished friends, family members, and former students for her extraordinary storytelling, quick wit, and caring spirit. Jean touched countless lives with her warmth, creativity, and deep compassion.

Born near Little Rock, Arkansas, on December 20, 1934, to Agnes Loretta Milligan and James Ewin McKnight, Jean grew up in San Bernardino, where she earned an AA degree from Valley College and was honored as Miss San Bernardino. While completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Education and teaching credential at San Diego State University, she met and married Ross Walker, a teacher at Helix High School, and the love of her life.

Jean began her career in education with the Cajon Valley Union School District, where she was named Teacher of the Year in 1961. Over more than three decades, she taught elementary school, music, and later special education at the Sevick Center. Her creativity and devotion to her students left a lasting impression on generations of children.

A naturally imaginative soul, Jean and a friend became puppeteers, crafting their own puppets and performing at the Balboa Park Puppet Theater. Her playful spirit led her to attend clown school, and she delighted children and families performing at schools, parties, and parades.

In 1973, Jean and Ross purchased a cabin in the Lake Arrowhead area, which quickly became a beloved family retreat. Summers formerly spent camping with their two daughters were now filled with days on the lake, winters skiing, and years of joyful gatherings with friends and extended family.

Jean and Ross were active members of CFM (Christian Family Movement), forming lifelong bonds within their tight-knit community. Jean also attended Lakeside Presbyterian Church and later Unity Church of El Cajon, and participated in AFS (American Field Service), through which the family welcomed exchange students from around the world into their home.

After retiring, Jean and Ross traveled widely. In her 60s, she embarked on a memorable adventure to Morocco with her cousins — and even rode a camel — a testament to her fearless spirit and sense of fun.

Jean’s boundless creativity, humor, and loving presence were among the qualities most treasured by all who knew her. She is survived by her daughters, Andrea (Victor) and Marissa (Dave), and her granddaughters, Sylvie and Isabelle, who will forever hold her in their hearts.

A small Celebration of Life will be held at the family cabin with immediate family, and a tree will be planted in her honor — a lasting tribute to Jean’s love of the mountains and the joy she brought to the world.