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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE LIFE OF GIROD CASSELL WALKER
WHEREAS, Almighty God, in His infinite wisdom, called from our midst Girod Cassell Walker on September 29, 2026; and
WHEREAS, born on October 7, 1940, in Memphis, Tennessee, Girod was one of nine children born to Thelma Irene Walker and Girod Hall Walker, both of whom preceded him in death; and
WHEREAS, he attended Booker T. Washington High School, where he excelled academically and graduated with honors. His gift for music, particularly the drums, was evident early on, as he performed not only in the school band but also in clubs across Memphis, including the renowned Flamingo Club; and
WHEREAS, Girod earned his undergraduate degree in History from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, followed by a Master’s degree in Education from Roosevelt University. His path eventually led him to Chicago, a city he had long cherished through visits to his uncle, Rev. Bodie; and
WHEREAS, in Chicago, fate reunited him with his sixth-grade sweetheart, Phyllis, whom he married and with whom he shared a beautiful life of 61 years. Together they raised their beloved daughter, Erika Walker, who was always the light of his life; and
WHEREAS, a dedicated educator and mentor, Girod devoted his career to Chicago Public Schools (CPS), serving as a teacher, counselor, and later as an administrator in the central office. He played a pivotal role in numerous student enrichment programs, including “Who Am I,” a program designed to help students understand their identity and self-worth; and
WHEREAS, at Phillips High School, he founded a ski club, giving inner-city youth the opportunity to experience a world beyond their everyday lives. Despite his deep commitment to education, Girod never set aside his love of drumming. As a young musician, he is credited with teaching his neighborhood friend, Maurice White, to play the drums, a skill that helped shape the future founder of Earth, Wind & Fire; and
WHEREAS, Girod...
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