Babe Walker funeral expenses

3/20/25

Dear Friends and Family,

My name is Markisa Nightengale, daughter of Maurice Walker—known to many as “Babe.”

It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my father on March 20th at 5:50 PM at Liza’s Place in Wheeling, WV. As many of you know, Babe was a dedicated chef at the Wheeling Soup Kitchen, always serving others with kindness, a warm smile, and an open heart. He touched countless lives through his generosity and passion for helping those in need.

Beyond his work in the community, Babe was a devoted father, leaving behind six children who now face the difficult task of laying him to rest. As I begin making arrangements, I humbly ask for your support. Any contribution, no matter how small, will help us honor his memory and give him the farewell he deserves.

We appreciate your love, prayers, and generosity during this difficult time. Thank you for being part of Babe’s journey and for helping us carry his legacy forward.

With gratitude,

Markisa Nightengale, Keasha Nightengale, & Buddy Walker & Family❤️❤️❤️

2/27/25

First and foremost, I want to say that my dad is an incredible man. He is hardworking, kind-hearted, and always willing to help others, often putting their needs above his own. He is a loving father to six children, and anyone who knows him understands just how cherished he is.

I want to share what’s been happening. Recently, my dad has been unwell and many of us didn’t realize how serious it was. Over the past month, he began feeling sick—experiencing vomiting and discomfort. When his eyes started turning yellow, a sign of jaundice, we knew he needed medical attention. Though hesitant at first, we finally convinced him to go to the hospital on Monday, where he was admitted.

Doctors discovered a blockage in his bile duct, causing bile buildup. The plan was to transfer him to Morgantown on Tuesday morning for a procedure to place a stent in his liver and send him back. He returned to Wheeling Hospital the same day. By Wednesday evening his condition worsened and by Friday he was confused, in kidney failure, and struggling to communicate.

We received heartbreaking news from the oncologist that my dad has pancreatic cancer.

Everything has happened so quickly, and with heavy hearts we are still trying to process it all. I want to sincerely thank everyone who has reached out with love and support—it means the world to us. The whole Valley has shown up for my dad, and he knows just how many people are standing behind him. He’s a warrior, and he has repeatedly said that he’s going to fight!

With that being said, my dad is still currently in the hospital and many have asked how they can help. If you’d like to donate, we would be deeply grateful. Contributions will go toward medical expenses, household bills, potential cancer treatments, and anything else my dad may need to aid in his recovery or provide comfort.

If you are unable to donate, I ask that you please continue to keep my dad in your prayers. Your love, support, and prayers mean everything to us.❤️

With love and gratitude,

Markisa Nightengale, Keasha Nightengale, Buddy Walker, and all of the immediate family❤️