Mary Walker

Mary Lou Walker, 76, of Independence, passed away, Sunday, April 19, 2009 at her home with her daughters at her side. Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, April 24, 2009 at the Speaks Suburban Chapel. The family will greet friends from 2:00 p.m., until service time Friday at the chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Vitas Hospice or to Wayside Waifs. Mary Lou was born January 10, 1933 in Knob Knoster, MO to William and Zelma (Mann) Roberts. She grew up in Independence graduating from William Chrisman High School in 1950. She married LeRoy Warner, Jr. in 1951 and they had two daughters, Debbie and Diane. LeRoy passed away in 1964. As a young widow, she went to work for Andes and Roberts Construction Company holding a variety of positions. She remained in their employment for over 20 years. On August 3, 1968, she married John R. (Bob) Walker and moved with her daughters to Lathrop, MO. Together they raised their combined children-4 daughters and a son. Mary Lou and Bob had a cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks for almost 20 years where family and friends shared many good times. Bob passed away in July of 1990. Following his death Mary Lou moved back to Independence where she lived the remainder of her life. Besides her parents and her husbands, she was preceded in death by her stepson Johnny Walker. Mary Lou was fortunate to have many good friends in her life. A group of her closest “gal pals” became known as “The Lovlies”. They traveled together and shared the love of playing bridge. Mary Lou was an avid reader, loved music and the theater and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Survivors include: 4 daughters, Debbie Morris (Harry Stalnaker) of Lee’s Summit, MO, Linda Darr (Steven) of Smithville, MO, Diane Collins (Don) of Liberty, MO and Laura Adkins (Steve) of Plattsburg, MO; 9 grandchildren, Megan Smith, Josh Harrington, Blake Carter, Brian Carter, Chris Carter, Kailyn Collins, Jeremy Hanks, Brandi Hammond and Alicia Walker; 11 great grandchildren and a special friend, Joan Walker.