Mary Hunter ’58 Walker

Mary Hunter Schmidt Walker (1936-2023) was welcomed into heaven on October 2. She is survived by her husband, Dean Walker, her sister, 3 children and 4 grandchildren. Mary, a Hope College graduate (1958), had a special passion for education. She served 14 years on the Reading School Board, including a term as president; 8 years on the Exeter School Board; and led the GED program at Reading Area Community College (RACC). She also helped organize Citizens Active for Reading Education (CARE).
Mary was deeply engaged in her community. She was secretary of the Reading Branch of the American Association of University Women and sang with the organization’s Song Spinners, and served as board president at the Reading Public Museum, where she helped found the museum foundation. She also served on various committees at Holy Cross United Methodist Church in Reading.
Her political activities also included making a run for the Pennsylvania General Assembly’s 126th House District, becoming the Democratic nominee in 1985. She coordinated the Legislative Action Committee of the Berks County Democratic Committee, as well.
Mary continued her community service into retirement, presiding over the residents’ council at Phoebe Retirement Community and the Phoebe Health Care Auxiliary. She also worked there as a volunteer gardener.
Mary had a talent for making people feel welcome and accepted. A born nurturer, she was also an avid gardener and created inspirational spaces wherever she resided. She will be deeply missed.