Shirley Frank Walker

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Shirley Frank Walker, who entered peacefully into eternal rest on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at the age of 88. She was a beloved wife, sister, Nana, and friend to many. She lived a full and meaningful life and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Shirley was born on February 25, 1935, in New Orleans. She grew up in the city where she attended Francis T. Nicholls High School. Following her graduation, Shirley pursued a career at the New Orleans Credit Bureau. She was a dedicated and hard-working professional who excelled in her field, making lifelong impressions on everyone she encountered. She married her beloved husband in 1975, the late Ray Walker, and moved to Chalmette, LA. Shirley lived in Chalmette for many years. As an active member of her community, Shirley participated in many local charitable organizations and social clubs. One of her greatest achievements was establishing the first-ever Red Hat Society in St. Bernard, the Hattitudes. In 2005, following Hurricane Katrina, Shirley moved in with her niece Lynn in Mandeville and was a tremendous help to all of Lynn’s children and grandchildren. Shirley loved being near her family on the Northshore, so she moved to Abita Springs, LA, where she resided with her two beloved cats, Alfie and Missy. Shirley’s love for animals extended to the outdoors, where she tended to her everyday wild animal visitors right in her backyard. Shirley was a multi-talented, amazing woman. She starred in many plays and productions as lead vocalist. Shirley cut her first record at the age of 12. The many songs she sang to her family are still sung amongst the family today, passing on to the many generations she has left behind. Family and friends will remember Shirley (Nana) for her incredibly generous spirit and the love she showed her dear neighbors, friends, coworkers, and many children in her life. Shirley knew how to make friends, celebrate life, and express love through the most thoughtful acts, ensuring everyone felt cherished and well-fed. Never empty-handed at a family gathering, Shirley always brought her best recipes to share. Everyone remembers that cold weather brings out Nana’s Chili. Nana was never the one to forget birthdays or special days, remembering even the smallest of occasions and the smallest of babies. She became the famous cupcake lady and shared her baking skills with everyone. Shirley’s legacy will live on through the myriad of memories she created and the love she showed her dear neighbors, friends, family, and especially all the children in her life. Shirley is preceded in death by her parents Rudolph and Alma Mahe Frank; her siblings Rudolph Frank, Jr., John Albe (Margo), and Liberty Ebeling (Marcus); and her sister in-law Gloria Frank. Shirley is survived by her brother Earl Frank, age 98; her nieces and nephews Lynn Saia (Vincent), Geraldine Marshall, Nancy DiMaggio (David), Richard Frank (Donna), Claire Colombo (Vic), Ann Redd (John), John Albe (Cindy); her Godchildren Rickey Marshall (Lori) and Wendy Carr (Wes). She is also survived by a host of great, great-great, and great-great-great nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite pet society. A memorial mass and celebration of life led by Monsignor W. Bilinsky will be held at 2 pm on Friday, October 27, 2023 at Saint Joseph Abbey, 75376 River Rd., Saint Benedict, LA 70457. Visitation starting at 1 pm. Interment will immediately follow the mass at the Abbey. Reception to follow.

Shirley Frank Walker

February 25, 1935 - October 19, 2023