Jacqueline “Pookie” Walker, 58, passed away on Monday, March 15, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer at MetroHealth Medical Center. Never one to complain about her circumstances, she fought her cancer aggressively with grace, a radiant smile and determination.

Jacqueline was born in Cleveland, Ohio on March 19, 1962, daughter to Sarah Walker and Willie Woods.

Jacqueline graduated from East Technical High School with the class of 1980. Before retiring, she developed a strong work ethic early in life where she began working through a program called Vacancy Reduction in 1990 as a laborer/groundsmen, after which she was hired permanently at Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority. After holding multiple positions within the company, she retired as a Service Person IV after 25 years of service. While still employed at CMHA, she began a second career as a part-time dressing room/lobby attendant at Playhouse Square where she worked for 24 years before retiring.

Pookie, to all who knew her, was a unique, loyal, and caring individual who touched the lives of anyone she encountered. She had a gentle and kind nature. She always performed kind deeds for others, without being asked or waiting for an applause. Pookie was a very well-grounded, selfless woman with a high moral compass. She always wanted to help out and be involved-no matter the severity of the circumstances. She quietly insisted on doing more than her part, leading by example-either taking the initiative or delegating to another.

Jacqueline was a beautiful person both inside and out, who through her generosity provided her home as a haven for many. The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Jacqueline. She loved spending time in the kitchen, creating delicious meals for the holidays, working, conversing with family and friends, shopping, but most of all spending time with her grandchildren.

Jacqueline most important role in life was being a mother. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them; however, her role as “Granny” was the most fulfilling. She committed a great amount of time to her grandchildren, leaving an honorable legacy.

While she faced many trials and tribulations throughout her lifetime, she persevered remaining resilient through it all. Although far from perfect, Jacqueline remained true to herself being unapologetic. She was the epitome of what a strong woman looks like.

Jacqueline is preceded in death by her mother, Sarah Walker; sisters, Mary Walker and Yolonda Walker; brothers, Lawrence Woods and Ronald Woods.

Jacqueline is survived by: children, Harold Walker, LaTanya Walker and Akia Walker; grandchildren, A’keria Walker, Jamari Walker and Isabella Johnson; father, Willie Woods; siblings, Anthony Walker, Brenda Walker, Tyrone Walker (Diane) and Betty Walker, with Rosalind Johnson (Ronald), Gloria Billingsley (Bobby), Robert Woods (Gwendolyn) and James Woods; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.