From a very early age, she was immersed in the Christian community that would be her lifelong support. As a youth, she heeded the call of Christ and began her journey with the Lord in New Jersey. During her adult years, she relocated to Columbus, Georgia and later to Albany, Georgia where she united with the River Road Church of Christ.

While living in Columbus, Georgia, she met and married the love of her life, Elijah Walker, Jr. Their union stood the test of time, was blessed with a family of eight children, and they enjoyed many happy years together. As a wife and mother, Dee was a persistent, hardworking woman who ate not the bread of idleness. For numerous years after moving their family to Albany, she was employed as a food service technician at Miller Brewing Company. She was also an incredibly talented cook, and her culinary skills were put to task through her ownership and head chef of 3-D's Restaurant in East Albany.

Dee had many passions in her life and was always busy pursing them. She enjoyed sewing and knitting, reading and jigsaw puzzles, and preparing meals for her family and friends. But her greatest delight was being a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy. Willie Dee's friendliness and kindness to all people and her devotion for her family and friends are lasting tributes to the beauty of her heart and soul. Her presence will deeply be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

On Thursday, May 22, 2017, Dee's earthly journey ended at the Thomson Health and Rehabilitation Center in Thomson, Georgia, and she transitioned from our midst. In addition to her aunt and uncle, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Elijah Walker, Jr.; two daughters, Barbara Murphy and Sharon Walker; one sister, Mattie M. Thompson; and her son-in-law, Robert Murphy.

Left to cherish fond memories are her loving children, Anita (Dennis) Curry of Jonesboro, GA, Joyce Walker and Kimberly (Charles) Jackson of Albany, Georgia, Cathy (Harold) James of Grovetown, GA, Roderick Walker of Atlanta, GA, and Gina Walker of Columbus, GA; 13 grandchildren, 26, great grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren; her brother , Jimmy Lee Washington of Trenton, NJ; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends.