Mary Carol (Cavness) Walker passed away at the age of 89 on October 1, 2024. Carol was born in San Antonio on March 21, 1935, to Addie W. and Charles H. Cavness. She was raised in Austin and was a proud graduate of Austin High School and Southwestern University. In 1957 she married Robert C. Walker, Jr, and they raised four children. She received a master’s degree in English Literature from Texas Tech University, and a Ph.D. in English Literature from the University of Texas.
Carol was a lifelong educator, liberal activist, and bold advocate of peace with justice. Whether as a preacher’s wife, missionary, college professor, high school teacher or Little League coach, she lived a life of service to others, especially those less fortunate. A fearless world traveler, she served in varying capacities in Cuba, Lebanon, Uruguay, China and Peru. She also served in Texas, New York, Louisiana and Arkansas. Back at home in Austin she loved a cool dip in Barton Springs, the quiet sunsets from the reservoir near Mt. Bonnell, and she had a particular fondness for burgers from Dirty’s. She had a tight circle of friends from Austin High days, starting out as the “Buddy Group”, and later the “Biddy Group”. This loyal band of sisters held legendary annual get-togethers and remain close to this day.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents and her three brothers, Bill, Don and Joe Cavness. She is survived by her children; Patty Monical, John Walker (Christine), Sharon Fillion, and David Walker (Heyden); her grandchildren Ashley & Jackie Monical, Tracie Walker (Wesley Hill) & Kyle (Mimi) Walker, Lara (Win) Brown, Veronica Fillion, and Arlen & Addie Walker; her great grandchildren Trey, Kalyn & Walker Brown, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church at 1201 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701 on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 10:00, reception following the service. Spring colors welcome.
As Carol was heavily involved with Casa Marianella, an Austin non-profit serving displaced immigrants and mothers & children escaping violence, Carol’s family encourages donations in her name to Casa Marianella, 821 Gunter Street, Austin, TX 78702. (https://rally.org/casamarianella)
