Marian Elizabeth Cassels Walker
July 3, 1943 – November 23, 2025
Marian Elizabeth Cassels Walker, age 82, passed away peacefully in her family’s arms on November 23, 2025, at her home in Rochester, Illinois. Born on July 3, 1943, in Grady County, Georgia, Marian lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her community.
Marian was the daughter of Carson Cassels and Eunice Reynolds Cassels Bennett. She grew up in Cairo, Georgia and graduated from Cairo High School before continuing her education at Young Harris College. Her early years laid the foundation for a life characterized by compassion and determination. Professionally, Marian worked as a bookkeeper. She was employed by Tommy Wells, CPA, for most of her career and was dedicated to her work.
Marian was a loyal and devoted friend whose home was a welcoming space for all who knew her. She was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was a guiding force in her life and shaped the way she treated others—with warmth and an open heart.
Marian enjoyed reading, sewing, cross-stitching, crocheting, and spending time with family and friends. Many of her loved ones cherish the items she created for them. She had many lifelong friends and found joy in nurturing those relationships.
Marian’s legacy lives on through the many lives she touched. She is lovingly remembered by her sister Nina Gainous of Cairo, Georgia; daughters Trisha (Neil) Headman of Springfield, Illinois; Melanie Higgins of Whigham, Georgia; stepdaughter Kati Searcy of Mesa, Arizona; grandchildren Sarah (Sean) Hipp of Salt Lake City, Utah; Jacob (Hannah) Headman of Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin; Bekah Headman of Ocala, Florida; Callie, Anna, and Elise Headman of Springfield, Illinois; Evan Higgins of Whigham, Georgia; Allison (John) Megow of Okayama, Japan; Laura Higgins of Springdale, Arkansas; Chris Searcy of Mesa, Arizona; great-grandchildren Lucas Headman and Levi Headman of Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin; as well as a host of nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.
She was preceded in death by her husband Callis Walker; son-in-law Mark Higgins; father Carson Cassels; and mother Eunice Reynolds Cassels Bennett.
A memorial service will be held at the Chapel of Clark Funeral Home, Cairo, GA, on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 3 p.m. with a visitation following.
May Marian’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
