Throughout her long life, Carol was deeply involved in the Lincoln community. Passionate about the arts, she led activities for the Lincoln Symphony Guild, Sigma Alpha Iota, Friends of Opera, and the University Place Art Center, among others. She was devoted to her children’s schools and received an Honorary Lifetime Membership from the Nebraska PTA.Her faith and membership at First Plymouth Church were central to her life—she served as wedding coordinator, supported Abendmusik, and traveled with the choir internationally.
An avid bridge player, she competed well into her eighties. A three-time cancer survivor, she dedicated time to the American Cancer Society, earning its Distinguished Service Award. Carol also served on the Lincoln Historic Preservation Commission, Lancaster Election Commission, LGH Auxiliary, and Community Women’s Club among many civic organizations. Professionally, she retired as a realtor with Woods Brothers and previously held roles as manager in the Lincoln City Attorney’s Office, Regional Director for the 1990 Census, and Nebraska’s first Director of Affirmative Action.
She is survived by her children Linda Gardels (David), Bradley (Kimberly), Julia Harper (Rollin), and Adrienne Dickson (IV), nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents, husband Cecil Walker, son Paul, and brothers William Jr. “Bozie” and Kenneth Price.
Funeral services are to be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at First Plymouth Church, 2000 ‘D’ Street in Lincoln. Private interment.
A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Roper and Sons Midtown Chapel, 4300 ‘O’ Street in Lincoln.
Memorials to the American Cancer Society or Abendmusik at First Plymouth.