Mickey Starling
reporter3@greenepublishing.com
Natalie Walker is a sharp-witted 99-year old young lady who has resided in Cherry Lake for over 50 years. She has attended Cherry Lake United Methodist Church for all of those years. Walker moved to Madison County after marrying Cherry Lake native Leroy Walker. Walker is now a widow, but she remains very active in her church, where she can be found folding bulletins for the upcoming Sunday services.
Over the years, Walker has sung in the choir on a regular basis and has done anything necessary to help the church. "Whatever was needed, I would do," said Walker. She is a member of the United Methodist Women and she has helped with Bible school on numerous occasions. Singing in the choir gave Walker the opportunity to learn many hymns and two of her favorites are "This is My Father's World," and "Blessed Assurance."
Walker has attended church since her childhood and has seen many changes in the world over the decades. Thinking of all the tension and fear that presently presides over the world, Walker states, bluntly, "It's a helluva mess."
Difficult times came for Walker four years ago when she broke her hip, but she has rebounded nicely. Today, she is still up and walking, with a little help from a cane. Recovering so well at her age is a blessing which Walker is truly thankful for. "I thank God for my exceptional health and my great friends," said Walker. Further proof of her great health was apparent when she picked up a small devotional book and read it during this interview. "I told you I was perfect," said Walker with a bright smile.
Walker loves the time she gets to spend at church and she is especially fond of Pastor Cheryl Cruce. "I love Mrs. Cheryl," said Walker. "She is a wonderful person and a great pastor who preaches straight out of the Bible." Walker continues to stay spiritually fit by reading her Bible and praying every morning. She invites everyone to visit Cherry Lake United Methodist Church. "Come, and you can sit with me in church," said Walker. There's a very good chance if the doors are open, Walker will be there.