Remembering Anne Collins Walker

Anne Collins Walker, age 85, of Tucson, AZ and Jackson, WY, passed away on January 21, 2025. Anne was a deeply devoted wife to The Honorable Ronald H. Walker for 66 years and a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who touched the lives of many with her faith, kindness, generosity, and humorous spirit.

Born on March 1, 1939 in Temple City, CA, Anne was the daughter of Marjorie King and Wayne Burdette Collins and loving sister to Robert Wayne Collins. She graduated from Temple City High School and the University of Arizona, where she met Ron– the great love of her life–and they began their journey of remarkable service and adventure.  She proudly served in Ronald Reagan’s White House and authored China Calls: Paving the Way for Nixon’s Historic Journey to China which tells the story of the advance team sent to China to prepare for President Nixon’s visit.

Ron and Anne Walker, and Ron’s mother Maxine Walker, with President Nixon in the Oval Office in 1970.

Throughout her life, Anne was active in politics, parks and community service. Anne played an important and faithful role in preserving the legacy of President Nixon. She was alongside Ron throughout his career of public service which included serving as Director of the White House Advance Office in the Nixon administration and Director of the National Park Service.

When Ron “came out of retirement” to serve as President of the Richard Nixon Foundation from 2009 to 2010 and Chairman of the Board of Directors from 2010 to 2018 —overseeing the renovation of the Nixon Library, the centennial celebrations of President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon and the expansion of the Foundation’s educational programs— Anne was his partner, even blogging about the experience as a way to stay connected with the extended Nixon administration alumni.

Ron and Anne Walker in the Nixon Library’s Oval Office in 2016.

In addition to her family, Anne was a dear friend to many and a long-time member of the Oro Valley United Church of Christ. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and loved with her infectious laugh and generous spirit.  Anne is survived by Ron Walker, daughters Lisa Walker Hart, Marja Walker, Lynne Walker McNees and her treasured son-in-law Barry McNees.  She was immensely proud of grandsons Hugh Walker Hart and John (Jake) Henry Hart, who brought joy and lit up her world every day. 

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made here to the Ron Walker Leadership Academy at Clemson University Institute for Parks.