Jewel Mae (Burkeen) Walker

Jewel Mae Burkeen Walker, 89, of Caruthersville, Missouri, went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 9, 2025, in her home in Caruthersville. Born on August 4, 1936, in Finger, Tennessee, she lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her community.

Jewel dedicated over three decades of service as a pharmacy technician at Pemiscot Memorial Hospital before retiring. Her long-standing commitment to her work reflected her caring nature and steadfast reliability—qualities that extended far beyond the workplace.

She was known for her vibrant personality and infectious sense of humor. Jewel was truly the life of the party; there was never a dull moment when she was around. Her quick wit and love for joking around brought joy to those fortunate enough to know her. She had a heart full of compassion and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether it was family or friend, Jewel never hesitated to show up when someone needed her.

Her faith played a central role in her life. She loved attending church and found great joy in participating on the sign team—a reflection of both her spiritual devotion and expressive spirit.

Jewel’s love for her family knew no bounds. She is survived by her son Rick Walker and his wife Janie of Caruthersville, MO; one brother, Jerry Burkeen; and three sisters: Pauline Cunningham of Rockford, IL; Loyce Holland and husband Bill of Waverly, TN; and Connie Kuykendall and husband Steve of Kennett, MO.

She leaves behind five grandchildren: Audra Flippo and husband Tom of Cooter, MO; Kristen Halford and husband Ryan of New Madrid, MO; Shannon Wallace of Kennett, MO, April Walker of Steele, MO; as well as granddaughter: Whitney Melugin and husband Dax of Caruthersville, MO.

Jewel also cherished her eleven great-grandchildren: Bailey Walker of Dyersburg, TN; Sarah Mejia and Savana Mejia of Dyersburg, TN; Jace Flippo and Gabbie Flippo of Hamilton, AL; Kate Flippo and Renn Flippo of Cooter, MO; Annasten Halford and Isabella Halford of New Madrid, MO; Trinity Malone of Steele, MO; Matthew Turnage of Steele, MO; Brilyn Thomas of Caruthersville, MO—and one great-great-grandchild: Kynlie Walker of Caruthersville, MO.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Creed Walker; son Gary Walker and grandchildren Adam Walker and Corinne Walker. She also joins in rest her parents Gilbert and Fleetie Burkeen; sisters Avis Ray Burkeen Ruth, Irene Riley, Mary Underwood, Mae Williams, Faye Allen Opal Geneva Burkeen; and brothers Roy Burkeen, Thomas Burkeen, Freeman Burkeen, Bob Burkeen, and Truman Burkeen.

Jewel’s legacy is one filled with laughter shared across generations, unwavering support for those she loved most deeply, and a spirited presence that will be dearly missed but fondly remembered.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Wesleyan Church with Reverend Kenny Lee officiating. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Hayti, Missouri. 

Visitation will be held the evening prior at the Wesleyan Church, Monday, August 11, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

H.S. Smith Funeral Home in charge of services. 

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