My Sisters and I
Left to Right: Valerie Williams, Gemma Walker, Grace Walker, Maggie Gonzales, Monica Walker, and Vicky Martinez — sitting together, sharing love and legacy.
“To the outside world we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters.
We know each other as we always were. We know each other’s hearts.
We share private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys.
We live outside the touch of time.”
— Clara Ortega
The Gift of Family
As the last of six sisters — and the tallest — I have been blessed with the love, warmth, and guidance of an extraordinary family.
I was nurtured, schooled, advised, sheltered, and comforted by a circle of women who defined strength and grace.
In total, there were 11 siblings in the Walker family. Of our five brothers, Anthony died at age 2, Brian at 51, and Michael at 57. Today, we remain eight siblings strong — bonded by love and memory, even after the passing of our beloved parents, Andrew and Rose Walker.
Celebrating Maggie’s 73rd Birthday
On January 26, 2013, we celebrated the 73rd birthday of my dear sister Margaret Rose (“Maggie”) Gonzales — pictured in the middle above.
As our family saying goes, “You want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.”
With coordination from Maggie’s daughter, Rayanne, we planned a surprise toast at home in Maryland on January 27. However, life had its own plan both the original hostess Tonya (Maggie’s granddaughter) and her daughter fell ill, leaving our guest of honor unable to attend. But true to our spirit, we celebrated with Maggie in absentia, hearts full and plates overflowing.
A Feast of Family and Love
Each family member brought something special to the table — literally and figuratively.
- Vicky shared her signature macaroni pie.
- Monica prepared a fresh green bean salad.
- Greg, son of my eldest brother Andre, cooked fried rice and chicken, accompanied by his wife Andrea and their daughters Danielle, Samantha, and baby Emma.
- Michelle and Brad, children of my late brother Michael, brought a hearty pot of homemade corn soup.
- Derek, his wife Colleen, and their children Daylan and Collice made salt fish buljol with hard-boiled eggs, avocados, and freshly baked bread.
- My son Daryean, with daughters Deana and Raylynn, joined me as we contributed curried chicken, rice, and fruit punch.
We laughed, feasted, and toasted to Maggie’s health and happiness. A lively phone call and a chorus of “Happy Birthday” filled the room — even without a working Skype connection.
Family Near and Far
Our global family celebrated across time zones:
- Andre and his wife Grace in Trinidad and Tobago.
- Gemma attending funeral services in Trinidad for dear friend Fr. Henry Charles.
- Valerie and her family joining in spirit from Garden Grove, California.
Distance has never dulled our bond — if anything, it has strengthened it.
A Toast to Maggie
“Maggie, you are the founding member of the Walker–Gonzales–Martinez family who migrated from Trinidad and Tobago to the United States in the early sixties.
Through your generosity and leadership, our family found the courage and faith to pursue the American Dream.
Your love has been sacred — your home a haven, your heart a gift.
I am humbled and overjoyed to be your sister.”
The Treasure of Sisterhood
When our father passed away in 1965, I was only nine years old. My older siblings became my protectors, mentors, and guides. From them, I learned that family is about care, sacrifice, and unconditional love.
From my sisters, I learned the joy of beauty, fashion, and self-expression — lessons that stay with me to this day. I still remember, on the day of Daddy’s funeral, sneaking into Val’s makeup and ending up with bright red lipstick… and even redder ears after the cleanup!
Through the Seasons of Life
As the years unfold, my sisters have remained my circle of strength. Together, we have weathered every storm — marriage, motherhood, loss, faith, divorce, and renewal.
They have taught me dignity, self-respect, resilience, and repentance qualities that define who I am today.
A Birthday Prayer from Maggie
“Dear Family,
Thank you so much. It was a total surprise to know that you were all gathered to celebrate my birthday. I’m honored!
Though I couldn’t be there in person, I felt the love from afar.
This is my birthday prayer for you:Lord, help our family for their continued caring and giving.
Let our differences blend in the joy of our living.
Keep our hearts open in true communication,
with patience and kindness without reservation.May our harmony unite us and strengthen our love,
with Your grace and mercy and the blessings You send from above.God bless and stay well. I love you all!
{{{HugUps}}} Maggie”
And truly, that’s what it’s all about.
