Montgomery County Councilmember At-Large Laurie-Anne Sayles released the following statement on the passing of Dr. DeVance Walker, Jr., a distinguished educator, veteran, civic leader and Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame inductee.
“Montgomery County has lost a remarkable leader whose life embodied service, integrity and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others.
“Dr. DeVance Walker, Jr. dedicated his life to expanding opportunity, strengthening small businesses, mentoring future leaders and advancing equity across our community. Whether serving our nation in the United States Air Force, helping recruit educators during a pivotal moment in our County’s history, or empowering entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams, he showed us that true leadership is measured by the lives we uplift.
“As a University of Baltimore alumna, I am especially grateful for the example Dr. Walker set through a lifetime of public service. His leadership reflected the very best of Montgomery County—grounded in humility, guided by compassion, and rooted in a steadfast belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed.
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“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Dr. Walker’s family, friends, former students, colleagues and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the stronger, more inclusive Montgomery County he helped build.”
Dr. Walker devoted more than four decades to serving Montgomery County. Before joining County government, he worked in the Montgomery County Public Schools Office of Human Resources, where he helped recruit diverse teachers and administrators following school integration.
He later served as the County’s first Minority Liaison to the County Executive before becoming Chief of the Division of Small and Minority Business Empowerment within the Department of Economic Development. Throughout his career, he championed entrepreneurs, expanded access to economic opportunity, and mentored countless business owners and community leaders, believing that when opportunity grows, entire communities thrive.
A lifelong educator and learner, Dr. Walker earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Howard University. His enduring commitment to justice, equity and public service earned him induction into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame in 2018, recognizing a legacy that continues to inspire generations of residents.
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As family, friends, colleagues, former students and community members gather today to celebrate Dr. Walker’s life, Councilmember Sayles joins them in honoring his extraordinary legacy. Earlier today, she presented an official Council proclamation recognizing his decades of service and lasting contributions to Montgomery County.
Dr. Walker’s life reminds us that true leadership is measured not by titles held, but by lives changed. His example of service, compassion and unwavering commitment to others will continue to inspire Montgomery County for generations to come.
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Read the original article at mcgov