Anna (Ann) Claire Neese Walker, 93, of Madisonville, passed into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ-the hope and joy of her life-on October 26, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family. Born on August 12, 1932, in Dyersburg, Tennessee, to the late Willie and Allene Neese, Ann lived a life anchored in faith, love, and selfless service. Her devotion to Christ shone brightly, guiding others to His grace through her wisdom, unwavering example, and boundless Christian hospitality. With unshakable faith, she touched countless lives, leading many to know the Lord and experience His grace. A devoted mother and grandmother, affectionately called Omi, Ann found her greatest joy in nurturing her family. She was the heart of every gathering, ever ready to offer a helping hand, intercede in prayer, or prepare a heartfelt home-cooked meal. Her family and friends will forever treasure memories of weekly Sunday lunches, her prayers for each by name, and her infectious joy that warmed every heart. Ann dedicated her professional life as an Administrator for the Mine Safety & Health Administration, where she served with integrity. A lover of the arts and travel, she delighted in sharing cultural experiences with her family, introducing them to the beauty of the world across the United States. Her service extended far beyond her family, as Ann faithfully served her church and community. Living out the call to make disciples of all nations, she joined mission teams to Costa Rica and South Africa. Guided by the principle that “iron sharpens iron,” she taught Sunday school, led Bible studies, and served on teams for Chrysalis and Walks to Emmaus. Her love was expressed in action—welcoming strangers to her table, bringing Habitat for Humanity to Hopkins County, and giving generously in ways known only to the Lord. Even in her final days, she remained devoted to her church, and we are certain she was greeted in eternity with, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Ann was preceded in death by her daughters, J’Nese West and Paige Higdon. She is survived by her children, Janet Walker and Jay (Debbie) Walker; her sister, Dian Neese Jordan; her brother, Bill Neese; eight grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
Though she will be deeply missed, she continues to shine in the lives she touched, and her legacy of faith and love will live on for generations to come. A celebration of her life will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Thursday, October 30th at Madisonville First United Methodist Church, with Ken Hundley and Reverend Doctors John and Loletuth Kalz officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. before the celebration.
A burial service will be held later that day at Maplewood Cemetery in Paris, Tennessee, where Ann will be laid to rest with her loved ones. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made, in her memory, to Madisonville First United Church or the new Mental Health Wing at the Refuge Clinic in Lexington, Kentucky (https://pushpay.com/g/