Octavia L. (Walker) Washington

Life’s Reflection

“For I am now ready to be offered and the time of my departure is at hand.  I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

II Timothy 4:6-7

Octavia Laverne Walker Washington, 85, passed away on February 5, 2016 at Life Center of Kansas City, Kansas. She was born on June 13, 1930 in Kansas City, Kansas to the union of William and Cassie Mae Block Walker. Octavia was a long time and faithful member of Our Lady and Saint Rose Catholic Church.

Octavia grew up in Kansas City, Kansas where she graduated from Sumner High School in 1948.  After high school she attended Pittsburg State Teachers College in Pittsburg, Kansas.

After leaving college, Octavia worked for the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) in a variety of positions, but spent the majority of time in data processing, where she became one of the first African American women to become a supervisor at BPU.  She retired in 1992 after 30 years of service.

Octavia married Tommy Smith of Kansas City, Missouri, and then wed Sammy Washington of Kansas City, Kansas.  Octavia was active in the community as a member of the Sumner High School Class of 1948 and the Royal Trump Bridge Club, and had been a member of several black women’s social clubs such as the Joi-de-Vivre Club and the Voguettes.

Octavia was an only child and was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband Sammy Washington, and numerous dearly beloved relatives and friends. She is survived by her many loving friends and relatives, including Andre Hampton of Kansas City, Kansas, who was a devoted caretaker in her final days.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial donations be made to Our Lady and St Rose Catholic Church in Kansas City, Kansas.  Condolences may be left on Octavia Washington’s online guest book at www.thatcherfuneralhome.com.

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