Lilly Walker

Lilly Walker, 71, Council Grove, Kansas, passed away at The University Medical of Kansas Medical Center on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Lilly Rochat was born July 6, 1954 at Emporia, Kansas, the daughter of Gene and June Elizabeth (Rhodes) Rochat. Lilly married James Norton in Emporia, Kansas on July 27, 1974, They later divorced and he survives. On June 22, 1984 Lilly married Dennis A. Walker in Emporia. He passed away on September 12, 2020. Lilly is survived by her daughter; Heather Ludwick, Medicine Lodge, Kansas, Step-children; Van (Tena) Walker, Kris (Debbie) Walker, Todd Walker, and Wendy (Kevyn) Ternes. Grandchildren; Caity and Casen Cline, step-grandchildren, and brothers; Ross and Ralph Rochat. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Linda Mauldby.

Lilly received her Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Emporia State University, Emporia, Kansas. She devoted her career to special education, touching countless lives with her kindness, dedication, and passion for helping others. She also owned, with husband, Dennis, the Walkers EZ Mart convenience store in Medicine Lodge, which they owned for over 25 years.

Cremation is planned. A graveside service will be held at the Patio Garden of Memorial Lawn Cemetery on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. The service will be conducted by Pastor Rob Clausen, First Baptist Church, Emporia. Burial will be in Memorial Lawn Cemetery.

A memorial has been established for Jean’s Pet Pantry at Community Christian Church, Council Grove, Kansas. Contributions may be sent in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, PO Box #175, Emporia, Kansas 66801