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GILLIAN WALKER

1940 - 2024

BORN

1940

DIED

2024

GILLIAN WALKER Obituary

WALKER--Gillian, E. M., LCSW, 83, died at her home in Harlem, NYC on January 15th surrounded by family and friends. Born in Washington, DC June 22, 1940. Daughter of Lady Margaret Drummond and John Walker, Director of the National Gallery of Art. Graduate of Radcliffe College. After an early career in the arts, including work with Circle in the Square and WNET, she became a counselor, receiving her MSW at Hunter College and working as a treasured family therapist, teacher and mentor. Her book "In the Midst of Winter," written at the start of the AIDS epidemic, was a source of sustenance for many. Her heart was enormous and giving, and she was a fierce fighter for justice and civil rights. Her interests were manifold (art, poetry, theology, Tibetan Buddhism, gardening) and she was a marvelous cook who would whip up feasts for 30 at the drop of a hat. For over 39 years of marriage to noted documentarian Albert Maysles, she was an instrumental supporter and sounding board, and together they created the Maysles Documentary Center in Harlem. Predeceased by brother John Anthony and husband Albert, she was the beloved mother of Rebekah, Philip, Sara and Auralice. Grandmother to Aman, Emil, Albert and Elijah. Donations in her name can be made to the Maysles Documentary Center www.maysles.org There will be a mass in her memory at the church of St Thomas More: 10:30am, Saturday, February 10th, 65 E 89th St, NY 10128. A celebration of life will be held at a future date TBD. "They are all gone into the world of light!"

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Jan. 21, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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Single Memorial Tree

Rebecca Martin

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Maxine L.

May 5, 2024

Gillian was a tremendous help during a crisis time in my family. Her intelligence and compassion was extraordinary. She was a lovely woman and I am so saddened to hear of her passing. Will miss you Gillian.

Ginny Blank

February 17, 2024

I just learned about the death of Gillian Walker. I have many lovely memories of Gillian during the time I worked at the Ackerman Institute. She was the kindest person with the most genuine smile. She was fun and giving. I shared conversations with her about our children who went to the same school at the time (Friends). She was an excellent therapist; the best. A creative spirit all the way. My condolences to her family.

Andre

January 25, 2024

Gillian was an incredible light , and had an enormous heart. Her compassion was unworldly and everyone she touches and every room she entered was made lighter , brighter and more positive. She made me a more loving soul by the mirror she offered !

Laurent Delly

January 25, 2024

Thank you for sharing this sad news with me! I will never forget Gillian, especially her generosity, her love for Haiti and our beloved Harlem. She was an extraordinary woman. On behalf of my family, our deepest sympathies to Rebekah, Philip, Sara, Auralice and the rest of the family.

P.S: I will not be able to attend the scheduled mass this coming month. However, I look forward to celebrating her life at a later date when it is announced.

Single Memorial Tree

Deborah Mello

Planted Trees

Deborah Mello

January 25, 2024

Sending love and condolences to Rebekah, Sara and Philip. I have such fond memories of being part of the early stages of the development of The Maysles Institute with Gillian and Albert. I remember the warmth and love shared by all around the dinner table enjoying a delicious meal prepared by Gillian. Gillian was compassionately brilliant, kind, fun, and genuinely curious and interested in each person fortunate enough to have shared time with her. Rest in peace Gillian.
Fondly,
Deborah Mello

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Memorial Events
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Feb

10

Funeral Mass

10:30 a.m.

St Thomas More

65 E 89th St, NY

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