Ygondine (Walker) Sturdivant

Born on August 21, 1926, Ygondine Walker Sturdivant died peacefully on June 1, 2025, at the age of 98.  Her steadfast witness of faith was evident throughout her life.  She was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church, Sunday School Superintendent of the Glendora Methodist Church for more than twenty years, past Chairman of the board of the Methodist Senior services, and a lifelong Christian role model for her family and all who knew her. Ygondine had a meaningful and positive influence on the lives of so many.

              Ygondine was the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. James Phoenix Walker and grew up in Lambert, Mississippi.  She graduated from the University of Mississippi summa cum laude where her generous friendships, great wisdom, and wonderful sense of humor won her many honors.  Ygondine was Vice-President of the Women’s Student Government Association, President of the Chi Omega sorority, Drum Majorette for the Ole Miss Band, featured Drum Majorette on the cover of a national sports magazine, Miss Ole Miss in 1948, and a member of the Ole Miss Hall of Fame.

              Ygondine was active in her community serving as the Chairperson of the West Tallahatchie School Council, the 4-H Club sponsor for three years and Cub Scout Den Leader for six years.  Ygondine brought her considerable humor and charm to any situation, and people who came in contact with her were struck by her warmth and ability to put people at ease.  Her grace, common sense, and renowned storytelling ability won the affection of all who knew her. 

On November 5, 1949, Ygondine married the love of her life, Mike P. Sturdivant, who died in 2012.  They were married for 62 blissful years.  Ygondine is survived by her five children, Mike (Jan), Walker (Lanie), Sykes (Cindy), Gaines (Lynn), and Ygondine Enlow (John), 9 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.  In addition to her husband, Mike, she was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. James P. Walker, by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. L.T. Gaines, and Dr. and Mrs. James T. Walker, and by her brother, Jimmy Walker.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Mississippi Methodist Senior Services, 109 South Broadway St., Tupelo, MS 38804, or to Delta Streets Academy, 401 George St., Greenwood, MS 38930, or to a charity of your choice.

              Visitation will be held at St. Johns Methodist Church, 1001 Grand Blvd, Greenwood, MS on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 10:00, followed by a memorial service celebrating her life at 11:30.  Burial will be at 2:30 at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Clarksdale, MS for the family only.

              The family wants to thank the following caregivers for their dedicated care:  Debra Freeman, Roberta Love, Linda Franklin, Carolyn Lee, and Willie Wilkins.

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