Ronald Walker

Ronald was born on January 11, 1961, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was the youngest son/child of the late John Walker and Julia (Dowling) Walker. Ronald grew up in Dorchester, MA, and pursued his education at Roxbury Community School and Sharon, MA (METCO). After completing high school, Ronald completed a certificate program at John Robert Powers School, specializing in modeling and fashion merchandising.

During his formative years, Ronald gained valuable work experience at his father's neighborhood variety store, Walker's Market. He held various other jobs including cashier, store manager, security guard, and stock and inventory clerk. His most recent employment was with Home Goods, where his employer commended his exceptional work ethic. Ronald was known to willingly cover shifts in case of no-shows, even when fatigued, and often assumed a leadership role during weekend shifts, demonstrating his unwavering dedication and commitment.

Ronald was an incredibly kind and generous individual for whom family held great significance. He delighted in lavishing his nieces and nephews with treats, gifts, and financial gestures, ensuring that each encounter with him promised a surprise. With the arrival of each new family addition, Ronald's trademark bag of baby items would soon follow, often containing items the baby would grow into over time, a testament to Ronald's irresistible urge to indulge when it came to family. His thoughtfulness extended to special occasions, holidays, or simply whenever he felt a child might appreciate something, ultimately earning him the endearing title of "Favorite Uncle". As his nieces and nephews matured and began their own families, Ronald's benevolence naturally cascaded down to their children and grandchildren.

In 1999, Ronald was blessed with a daughter named Ronyae. Tragically, her mother, Tameka Newberry, passed away when Ronyae was just 7 years old. Ronald assumed full custody of his daughter, raising her with unwavering support from both his and Tameka's families. As Ronyae blossomed into a young woman, they cherished special "Daddy and Daughter" days, with Ronald steadfastly ensuring her well-being and, naturally, showering her with treats. In 2020, Ronald was blessed with the arrival of his grandson, Jay'Vian. While he continued to dote on his daughter, nieces, and nephews, Ronald's devotion reached new heights when it came to his grandchild. Even in his waning health, Ronald eagerly joined Jay’Vian in play, whether it was with toy cars or in spending hours engrossed in animated movies and cartoons. Just as with Ronyae, Ronald delighted in recounting the remarkable wit and amusing remarks of his bright grandson, Jay'Vian.

Ronald was consistently generous with the adults in his life and had a particular fondness for seafood. When he found a dish he enjoyed, he made sure others had a taste, often saying, “you can always have it for later, so you don’t have to cook.” He had a knack for giving thoughtful gifts to his family and friends, remembering their preferences and desires. If anyone mentioned needing money, he was always ready to offer his last. 

During his illness, his sister Phyllis played a pivotal role in caring for him, encouraging to adhere to his medication regimen and follow the doctor's orders. Despite facing his own challenges, Ronald never argued about his actions, always calmly assuring her by saying, “yeah I did.” Ronald's mother, daughter, and brother Phillip also provided unwavering support for him.

Ronald was preceded in death by his father, John, and his brother, Timothy. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Ronyae Newberry-Walker; grandson, Jay’Vian Carter Pierre; mother, Juila Walker; sisters, Phyllis Walker-Hampton (Robert), Gwendolyn Walker, Yvette Boone (Russell), and Robin Burke; brothers, John Walker (Shevaun) and Phillip Walker; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends; including his longtime, very supportive friend, Robert Goode. 

Ronald will surely be missed. His memory will be cherished by those who spent time with him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Kerry Jon Walker Fund (thekerryfund.org) in Ronald’s name. A link has also been made available on the website. 

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