Jane Ann Cook Walton

Jane Ann Cook Walton died on May 17, 2018 following a sudden brave battle with brain cancer. She was born on Dec 1, 1934 to James and Esther Cook. She is survived by her two children, Richard Andrew Walton (Kayoko) of Odawara, Japan and Katherine Walton Roche (Paul Roche) of Potomac, Maryland, as well as six grandchildren: Naomi, Mina, and Kent Walton; and Nikki, Megan, and Matthew Roche. She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, R. Edwin Walton, sister,Elizabeth ‘Betty' Cook Stegall, and son, James Cook Walton. Jane was born and raised in Little Rock where she graduated from Little Rock Senior High. She was known as a friendly and outgoing student and voted ‘most polite' by her classmates. She continued her education at both University of Arkansas and Hendrix College, earning a degree from Little Rock Junior College. Jane had a profound love of animals, and spent much of her leisure time growing up on the family farm riding horses. Some of her most precious memories are from the farm and interacting with the animals: cattle, horses, and dogs. Throughout her life, she continued to be devoted to her dogs and supported the Humane Society. Jane also loved to travel. In 1953, her parents sent her on the trip of a lifetime, during which she spent the summer touring Europe. She traveled by ship and loved to tell about how she was invited to sit at the Captain's table during the voyage. Later she returned to Europe on a special trip with her daughter Katherine, and explored Japan with her son, Ricky. Jane and Ed also took a cruise of the Black Sea, which was a highlight they spoke of often. Jane was passionate about learning. She was an avid reader, and loved to watch documentaries. Jane returned to academics in the mid-1980s to attend classes at Hendrix College where her son was also enrolled and she graduated with a degree in Religion in 1990. Jane was active in her community through volunteering with CARTI and participating in her church. For many years she taught 6th grade Sunday School at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church. Later, she was active in her Bible study group at St. James United Methodist Church. She and Ed enjoyed bridge clubs and playing tennis, which led to many great friendships. Her friends and family described Jane as cheerful and friendly or a ‘ray of sunshine'. She made friends easily and could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, and often did. She knew the names of the employees where she shopped, the nurses and receptionists at the doctors' offices and often all about their families. She was a genuine people person. Following Ed's death in 2007, she moved to Potomac, Md. to be near Katherine and her family. While there, she was able to spend time with three of her grandchildren. She lived across the street and helped drive carpools and participated in the grandkids' activities. She was able to see Nikki and Megan grow into fine young adults and she was always Matthew's biggest baseball fan. Jane also attended Potomac United Methodist Church. Although residing in Maryland, she was always an Arkansan at heart. More than anything, Jane was devoted to her family. She often mentioned the utmost importance of family, honesty, reputation, and faith. It was her wish to share her favorite Bible verse: Micah 6:8 (NIV): And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 24 from 5-7 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct. (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Rd.). Services will be Friday, May 25 at 1 p.m. at St. James United Methodist Church, followed by interment at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Humane Society or St. James United Methodist Church. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home (501) 224-2200. Jane's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.