On November 1, 1958, Karene married William Walker Jr. in Charlotte, NC, becoming a loving stepmother to Leonard and Jacquelyn Walker. Together, she and William worked as educators in the Job Corps, which led the family to Utah and Missouri. Later, William’s career brought them to the Washington, DC area, where Karene worked in The Office of Presidential Correspondence. Upon retirement, they returned to their roots in Charlotte.

Karene was known for her feisty spirit and candid nature. She loved gardening, cooking, singing and playing gospel music on the organ, and shopping for shoes.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather Sam Gill, her husband William, her siblings Preston Fair Jr. and Ann Jones, and her son Leonard. Karene is survived by her daughter, Jacquelyn Christine Walker; her granddaughter, Tanya K. Hailey; four additional grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

In keeping with her dedication to education and following her sister’s example, Karene selflessly donated her body to Elon University’s Anatomical Gift Program, where she will continue to teach as a silent teacher.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Elon University Anatomical Gift Program (School of Health Sciences) in memory of Karene Walker via website https://connect.elon.edu/supp…