Harva Nell Walker

Harva Nell Walker of Midwest City was called to heaven on September 14, 2023. She was a loving wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister and friend. She was born on March 23, 1950, in Altus, Oklahoma, to Hardy Ray and Dora Mae Richardson. During her early childhood years, the family’s occupations relocated them to Kansas, Colorado, Arizona and Texas before eventually returning to their roots in Eldorado, Oklahoma with her parents’ custom combine business. She graduated from Eldorado High School in 1968 and in 1969, married her partner for life of fifty-four years, Rodney Walker of Eldorado whom she had known since the age of five. They moved to Weatherford, Oklahoma to pursue higher education where they welcomed their first daughter Deena in 1970. Harva attended college at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) where she earned an associate’s degree in Secretarial Science in 1970. During this time, she worked in the SWOSU library and a clothing store to help support her family.

Harva and Rodney then established their home in Midwest City in 1972 upon Rodney’s graduation. Harva continued to support her family by beginning her professional journey at Chromalloy Gas Turbine Corp in Midwest City which showcased her dedication and adaptability. From starting as a switchboard operator to retiring as the Personnel Administrator of Human Resources in 2006, she exemplified strength and determination in both her career and her family life. Harva then welcomed her second daughter Robin in 1980.

Throughout her life’s journey, Harva’s faith has been her foundation. She was a follower of Christ and a devoted member of Eldorado First Baptist Church, and in recent years found community and fellowship at Choctaw Road Baptist Church.

Harva’s love for life extended to her passion for travel, where she found joy in exploring new places and revisiting favorites. Riding behind Rodney on an ATV in the Colorado backcountry was at the top of her list. One of her special delights was embarking on road trips and spontaneously exploring side ventures along the way. Her favorite travel destinations included Lake City, Colorado; Gulf Shores, Alabama; Lahaina, Maui and Boston, Massachusetts. Her favorite souvenirs were the rocks and seashells she found herself. Wherever her travel journeys took her, home was always where her heart was. She created a loving and welcoming home throughout the years, always extending a warm welcome to her daughters’ friends and loved ones, as well as her grandchildren. She enjoyed sharing her home for pool parties, meals and holidays.

Staying true to their roots, Harva and Rodney renovated a home in Eldorado into a haven of comfort and memories. This became their second home, a cherished retreat during their frequent visits back to their hometown.

At the heart of her interests was her love for learning and self-discovery. She was especially inspired by the strength and compassion of her mother Dora. Personal time to Harva often included word puzzles and reading books. She also delved into genealogy research, uncovering her family’s history and often other’s family histories at their request. Her creative soul found expression in cross-stitching, jewelry-making, playing the piano and collecting antique dishes. She also found joy in life’s simple pleasures such as sitting on the patio drinking coffee, helping
Rodney with gardening, listening to country music with Rodney, hosting family cookouts and doting on her beloved cat, Pete.

Above all, Harva’s heart found its truest happiness in the love of her family and friends. She was a devoted mother to her girls, Deena and Robin, always offering guidance, support and unwavering love. She cherished her role as Rodney’s partner for life, always standing by his side with never-ending support. She was a caring daughter to her and Rodney’s parents. She helped look after them in their time of need, especially during their later years. She was strong and steadfast, always the calm within the storm and was a rock for her family.

Harva adored her grandchildren, Sydney, Rylee and Mason. Their endeavors, accomplishments and sporting events brought her immense pride. She reveled in their achievements, always eager to support and encourage them in their pursuits. She was their number one fan and cheered them on during their many years of swimming, water polo, hockey, baseball, football, basketball and music.

Harva’s love for family extended to each of her three siblings. As a close-knit family, they looked to their big sister for love and guidance, which she always shared. She especially shared a cherished relationship with her youngest sister, Gayle.

Loving, kind, supportive and a protector of her family, Harva’s love knew no bounds. Her spirit extended to a wide circle of family, friends and acquaintances who were touched by her warmth. Her legacy lives on through her devoted husband, daughters, grandchildren, and other family and friends.

Harva is survived by her husband Rodney Walker of Midwest City, Oklahoma; daughters Deena Nguyen of Boise, Idaho and Robin Avery of Midwest City, Oklahoma; grandchildren Sydney Nguyen, Rylee Ortivez and Mason Avery; siblings Mike Richardson, Wanda Black and Gayle Jones.

Services will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at the Barnes Friederich Funeral Home Chapel in Midwest City. Burial will follow at 3:00 PM in the Eldorado Cemetery under the care of Kincannon Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online tributes may be made at kincannonfuneralhome.com