Jane P Walker

Jane Pridgen Walker, 86, died peacefully on September 19, 2026. A graveside service will be conducted on Saturday, October 3, at 11:00 a.m. at Pike Creek Presbyterian Cemetery, 3738 US 117 South, St. Helena, NC 28425. A celebration of Jane’s life will follow the service at The Riverbend at Old River Acres, 565 Old River Acres Drive Burgaw, NC 28425.

Jane would most want to be remembered for her loving, caring nature. She brought joy and compassion to everyone who knew her. A dedicated nurse, Jane graduated from the Watts School of Nursing in Durham, NC, and later worked at Dorothea Dix Hospital. She married the love of her life, Preston Walker, MD, on September 29, 1961. Together, they built a wonderful life in Raleigh, surrounded by family and friends.

In 1967, they welcomed their daughter, Kathy, and in 1970, they were blessed with their son, Rusty. Along the way, their home welcomed too many dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters, ponies, and other animals to count. The Walker house was a haven for any family member or friend who landed on the doorstep. The neighborhood children fondly called her "Mama Jane," a title that perfectly fit her role as the community mom. Pound cake and sweet tea were always on offer. As their children grew, so did the gatherings; their July 4th parties, family reunions, and oyster roasts became legendary. Jane truly excelled at making everyone feel at home.

She eventually returned to nursing at St. Mary’s School in Raleigh. While there, she earned the moniker "Nurse Jane" and deeply enjoyed caring for "her girls." She retired for good upon the arrival of her grandsons, Ward and Preston, which earned her two of her favorite nicknames: "Grandma Jane" (from Ward) and "Mama Janezy" (from Preston). After the passing of her husband, she relocated to Hampstead, close to where she grew up.

In her later years, even as dementia began to claim her memories, Jane gave hugs and smiles freely. She still told people, “I love you like family,” and meant it from the bottom of her heart. Nothing could dampen her brightness. Now our beautiful sun, Mama Jane, has left the earth. She would not want us to be troubled; shed only tears of love and joy! She has gone home, and her spirit lives on forever.

Jane was preceded in death by her loving husband, Pret; her brother, John Pridgen; and her nephew, Buddy.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathy W. Tyson, and her husband, Durk, of Grimesland, NC; her son, Rusty Walker, and his wife, Tiffany, of Surf City, NC; and her two grandsons, Ward Tyson (fiancé, Jess Foster) and Preston Walker. She is also survived by her two brothers, Dub (James) Pridgen and his wife, Julietta, of Goldston, NC, and E.H. (Evans Hanson) Pridgen and his wife, Annette, of Apex, NC; as well as many wonderful nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Jane leaves behind her chosen family: Delores Haizlip and her late husband, Thomas M. Haizlip, MD; their children, Thomas M. Haizlip, Jr., MD, and his wife, Lise; and Julie A. Haizlip, MD, and her husband, Biff Beers. There are many other very special family members and friends who have always been considered true family.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to The Children’s Home Society of North Carolina 604 Meadow St. Greensboro NC 27405 or The Foundation of Hope 9401 Glenwood Ave. Raleigh, NC 27617.