Mary Louise Belenchia's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Louise Belenchia, who peacefully left us on March 25, 2025, with strength and grace.
Mary was born on February 21, 1947, in Shelby, MS, to Ned and Mafalda (Fallie) Belenchia. She was a devoted wife and friend, known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family and friends.
Mary shared a wonderful life with her beloved husband, Dr. William “Bill” Walker, who preceded her in death. Together, they spent countless joyful years tending to their garden, traveling to explore new places, and enjoying quiet evenings filled with painting and photography. Their bond was one of deep love, laughter, and simple pleasures that brought them lasting happiness.
Mary dedicated over 30 years of her life to helping others as a registered nurse in the VA Hospital's Department of Psychiatry in Memphis, TN, where she touched countless lives with her compassion and care.
As a lover of the arts, Mary was a long-time supporter of the Brooks Museum of Art, where she found both inspiration and community. She cherished attending gallery events and volunteered through the Brooks Museum League. Mary was involved in several events to support the museum. Her passion for the arts was evident to all who knew her. She was renowned in the city as a master gardener, teaching and taking classes at the Botanic Gardens, hosting tours and concerts in her garden, and earning many state fair awards.
She is survived by many close friends, family, and extended family, too many to mention, whom she loved dearly.
Mary was preceded in death by her loving husband, Dr. William “Bill” Walker, her parents, and her brother.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, located at 706 S. Highland Street, Memphis, TN 38111, on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and funeral services following at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorials be sent directly to West Cancer Foundation located at 850 Ridge Lake Blvd, Suite 207, Memphis, TN 38120 or by visiting https://westcancerfoundation.org
Mary fought bravely and lived fully, leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and cherished memories.
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