Pinkie Claudine Laverne Walker, at age 86, transitioned from this earthly life to her heavenly home in July of 2020. She was born September 3,1933 in Linden, Texas to the parentage of Doss E. Pruitt and Pinkie Epperson Pruitt, both deceased.

Pinkie accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was baptized at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Linden, where she remained a member until she graduated from Fairview High School in 1951. In pursuit of a higher education, Pinkie moved to Prairie View, Texas, where she earned her Bachelor's degree from Prairie View A&M University in Elementary Education. Following college, Pinkie relocated to Lansing, Michigan where she met and married Lucious Blake. To this union, twin sons, Kenneth L. and Kevin C., were born April 24, 1957.

Pinkie was hired by the Lansing School District as an Elementary teacher. She loved teaching, accordingly she opted to further her education by obtaining her Master's degree from Michigan State University. Pinkie was an educator for over 30 years, with her last school being Pleasant Grove Elementary. In addition, she had been a landlord, had owned a church supply business (The Chapel House USA), as well as a catering business, where she showed her gift of love for others through her cooking; which for her, was a labor of love. She and her latter husband John Walker Sr., owned and operated Walker Asphalt Paving, Sealer, and Repair. They both enjoyed outdoor activities, and spent time up North at their cottage hunting, fishing, and simply enjoying one another's company.

Pinkie loved the Lord, and was a devoted member of Friendship Baptist Church, where she remained so until her death. She was an active member in her Sorority AKA (Alpha Kapa Alpha), and many other organizations including: the NANBPWC, Inc. (National Assoc. of Negro Business & Professional Women's Clubs, Inc.), where she was one of the establishing members of the Greater Lansing Area chapter in 1982, as well as a life-member of the NAACP. Lastly, Pinkie was one of the founding members of the Earl Nelson Singers that formed in 1963. Singing was also a passion of hers, and the music was in her soul. You could see it in the classy and gracefulness of her walk, and the melodic sound of her voice when she spoke. God's grace lived in Pinkie.

Pinkie (Sweetie, as she was also lovingly called), was a soldier for the Lord.  Being the last of her siblings to leave this earth, she laid down her sword and shield. In her long white robe, she stood by the riverside as her loved ones welcomed her home. "When the darkness appears and the night draws near, and the day is past and gone. At the river I stand, guide my feet, hold my hand. Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home." She is now at rest in Gods loving arms. Sweetie, we will miss you!

She leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Kenneth L. Blake; grandson, Kevin B. Nemeth, both of Lansing, Michigan; granddaughter, Catherine A. Evans, of Texas, and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

Pinkie was preceded in death by her parents; son, Kevin C. Blake; brothers, Robert M. Pruitt, Daniel Pruitt, Doss E. Pruitt, Hardy Pruitt Sr., George Pruitt Jr.; sisters, Patricia A. Pruitt, Evelyn L. Hopkins, and Annette L. Haskins.

A cremation has taken place. Due to covid-19, there will be no public service. Pinkie's ashes will be interred into their final resting place during a private ceremony with immediate family members at East Lawn Memory Gardens in Okemos, Michigan.

You can celebrate Pinkie's life by donating to the Ingham County Animal Shelter in Pinkie's name, honoring her beloved grand puppy, Snoopy. Memories and condolences may be shared @ www.rileyfuneralhome.com .

Moreover, the family wishes to extend a sincere thank you for all the tributes honoring Pinkie, prayers, and messages of comfort and love given to us during this difficult time. We shall remain eternally grateful. May God bless each of you.