Alberta Walker, a distinguished leader in home care advocacy and a respected figure in the labor movement, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2024, at the age of 87. Known for her tireless dedication to workers’ rights and her unwavering support for her community, Alberta left a lasting legacy of leadership, love, and service.
Born on July 25, 1937, in Anderson, South Carolina, to Lucille and Clarence Walker, Alberta grew up in a close-knit family. She attended Westside High School, graduating in 1955, and later pursued cosmetology at Pivot Point International Academy in Evanston, Illinois. Her journey into advocacy and leadership began during her 25-year career at Jewel-Osco, where she worked as a frontend manager and union steward, fighting for the rights of her coworkers.
In the early 2000s, Alberta became a full-time caregiver for her son after he was paralyzed by a gunshot wound. Her personal experience with caregiving led her to a new path, becoming an active member of Legacy Local 880, which later merged into SEIU Healthcare Illinois. Alberta was instrumental in organizing workers across Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Kansas, advocating for better wages and working conditions for home care providers.
Alberta’s leadership within the union was undeniable. In 2016, she was recognized for personally signing up over 1,000 home care workers to become union members. Her role on SEIU Healthcare’s Executive Board allowed her to influence decisions that impacted the lives of over 90,000 healthcare and childcare providers. She traveled across the United States, meeting with other union activists to help them organize their own unions, leaving an indelible mark on the labor movement.
Beyond her activism, Alberta was deeply devoted to her family and faith. She was a member of Sweet Holy Spirit Church in Chicago, under the leadership of Bishop Larry D. Trotter, where she served as a trustee. Her family fondly recalls the warmth of her Sunday dinners, where she hosted gatherings filled with love and laughter. Alberta enjoyed spending her leisure time traveling, engaging in road trips with her family, and participating in her local van club, where her CB radio handle was “Lil’ Momma.” She was a passionate fan of the Chicago Bulls and Cubs, finding joy in sports and spending quality time with loved ones.
Known affectionately as “Granny” by those closest to her, Alberta had a special love for Pepsi, Baskin Robbins Black Walnut ice cream, and word search puzzles. Her love of sneakers and new cars was well known to family and friends. But most of all, Alberta will be remembered for her kind demeanor, her strong leadership, and the unconditional love she gave to everyone around her.
Ms. Walker was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Lucille Walker, her brothers Robert and Clarence Walker Jr., and two great-grandchildren, Hosie D. Wilson and Shandell Joseph Wilson. She leaves behind a loving family, including her four children: Genevosineo (Pat) Welch, Cassandra (Sandy) Wilson, Michael Walker, and Carol Walker, as well as her goddaughter Audrea Conner.
Alberta is also survived by her eight grandchildren, including Hosie S. Wilson, Tion J. Welch, Dione Mercier (Jaron), Monique Thames (NaTasha), De’Oshanae Daniels, Myracle Walker Jeffries, and My’Kayla Walker, along with 11 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
Alberta’s commitment to her family, her community, and the labor movement was unparalleled. As a caregiver, union leader, and mother, she leaves behind an enduring legacy of compassion, strength, and service. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Funeral services for Alberta Walker were held on September 25, 2024, at Freedom Church Ministries, 2298 Ridge Road, Lansing, Illinois.