With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kathi Maria Walker, affectionately known as “Miss Kathi” by many and “Kat” by her closest friends. She transitioned on March 11, 2025, at Hillcrest Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, surrounded by love.
Kathi was born on May 1, 1962, in Akron, Ohio, to Susie M. Walker (Blue) and Booker T. Walker. She was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, and friend who touched countless lives with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering strength.
She was a proud graduate of Buchtel High School, Class of 1980, where she was well-known for her beauty, kindness, and the strong friendships she built.
At just 18 years old, Kathi pursued a successful modeling career, captivating many with her elegance and confidence. Later, she transitioned into sales and marketing, thriving at a local car dealership before relocating to California for a few years. Later returning to Akron. She moved from her hometown of Akron to Twinsburg, Ohio, where she became a long-time resident until her passing. It was in Twinsburg that she built a life centered around family, community, and compassion.
Kathi’s journey was as vibrant as her personality. In 1993, she became a mother—a role she cherished above all else. Throughout her life, she worked in many roles, from mentoring children at the YMCA to caring for her mother for over a decade. She ultimately spent her career in hospitality before retiring early due to illness. Her passion for helping others and her talent for cooking were unmatched—those fortunate enough to taste her cooking will never forget the love she poured into every meal.
To know Kathi was to know joy, resilience, and love. She had an infectious laugh that could lift the spirits of anyone around her. She was kind, nurturing, and unapologetically herself. She took pride in her sense of style, her love for beauty and art, and her impeccable taste in fashion and décor. Kathi found joy in cooking, reading, traveling, watching crime documentaries, amusement parks, visiting museums and aquariums, shopping, and sharing laughter with friends and family. Above all, she adored her son Kace, who was the greatest love of her life.
Her faith was the foundation of her strength—she prayed every day and believed deeply in God’s love. She was a woman of honesty, loyalty, kindness, and compassion, always welcoming people with open arms and an open heart. Whether it was offering a plate of food, a place to stay, advice, a hug, or a listening ear, Kathi was always there for those in need. Her magnetic presence made her the heart of any room, and her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Kathi is survived by her beloved son Kace Walker ( Twinsburg ,OH) , her siblings—Rodney Walker (Akron, OH), Derek Walker (Atlanta, GA), and Olivia Dennis (Los Angeles, CA)—and countless friends and loved ones who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, Booker T. Walker (1996) Susie M. Walker (2021) and daughter Kayla M. Walker (2001).
A private celebration of life will be held in honor of Kathi. Details will be shared directly with close family and friends.