Margaret Jo Walls

Margaret Jo Walls was born on November 23, 1955, in Sandusky, Illinois, to Fred L. Walls and Barbara Bryant Walls. She passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication.

Raised in Marion, Illinois, Margaret was a proud graduate of Marion High School. From an early age, she embraced her faith and became an active and devoted member of Paul’s Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Her commitment to her church was evident in her years of service as the president of the usher board, where she welcomed others with warmth and grace.

Margaret’s impact extended far beyond the church doors. She played a vital role in the development of the local community center and was instrumental in securing Colp No. 9, ensuring a space for community enrichment. Her passion for child nutrition led her to become the site supervisor for the Summer Food Service Program, where she worked tirelessly to provide hot, nutritious meals to children, first at Paul’s Chapel Baptist Church and later at the new community center. She also devoted her time to organizing memorial dinners and supporting numerous community initiatives.

In her professional life, Margaret earned an associate degree and dedicated many years of service to Maytag (Norge) before retiring from the City of Marion. Her work ethic and commitment were a testament to her character, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues and friends alike.

Margaret was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Walls; father, Fred Walls Jr.; maternal grandparents, Leroy and Elnora Bryant; paternal grandparents, Maple Walls and Fred Walls Sr.; grandson, Da’Micah Jaseer Gunn; nephew, Coron Walls; and niece, Tina Pickens.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: daughters Gwendalyn Harris and Markeeta Buchanan, and son Joe Buchanan Jr. She leaves behind her adored grandchildren: Shakirra Harris, Jameira Harris, Michael “Duke” Gunn, and Josiah “Biggs” Davis; as well as her precious great-granddaughter, Azariyah Ivy. Margaret is also survived by her devoted siblings; Janice Walls, LaBarbara Walls, Fredrick Walls, Daniel Walls, Michael Walls, Reginald Walls, LaTanya Jenkins, DoVass Kendrick, Ravendo Kendrick, Valtarence Kendrick, Kenneth Walls, and Kelvin Walls. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and her dear friend Joe S. Buchanan Sr. will forever cherish her memory.

Margaret’s life was a testament to faith, family, and community. She was the embodiment of strength, compassion, and resilience. Her words, "Prayer changes things" and "Don’t say bye, say see you later," will forever echo in the hearts of those she loved.

She was, without a doubt, the strongest woman we knew.

Final arrangements were lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.