Celebrating Shelby

Shelby Lexus Riddick-Walker, affectionately known as Lex, was born to Ms. Gloria Riddick-
Walker and the late Mr. Michael Walker on July 28, 1980, in Norfolk, VA. She lived a servant
leader’s life; dedicated to caring for and advocating for the well-being of those she served and
her community at large. She gained her wings and entered her eternal rest on December 30,
2023, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion, resilience, and everlasting impact on the lives
of countless individuals.
Shelby attended school in Portsmouth, VA and completed her secondary education by
graduating from I.C. Norcom High School in 1999. She furthered her formal education by
obtaining her Associate of Arts degree in Culinary Arts from Tidewater Community College.
Passionate about service to others, Shelby pursued a host of careers that allowed her to be
“love in action” to all she encountered. She worked in diverse environments, ranging from
ACCESS AIDS Care/LGBT Life Center to Chesapeake General Hospital to 37 th and Zen, sharing her
infectious energy and exuberant light with all that she contacted.
As a passionate educator and advocate, Lex worked tirelessly to dismantle stereotypes, foster
inclusivity, and create safe spaces where individuals could embrace their authentic selves
without fear of judgement. She courageously demonstrated a life lived out loud and
encouraged and inspired others to do the same. As a trailblazer and mother in the LGBTQ+
community, she fearlessly fought for authentic expression and believed in the power of
education to challenge prejudice and transform hearts and minds. Lexus was also an avid
performer and lived through her time engaging audiences. Not only an advocate, educator, and
entertainer, she was also a beacon of support for those grappling with identity. Her kindness,
empathy, and genuine concern for the well-being of others created a ripple effect of positivity,
inspiring numerous individuals to embrace and love their authentic selves. A Spring 2015
initiate of Kappa Iota Sigma Sorority, Inc., she embodied her line name “Pure Intentions.”
Through her unwavering commitment, Shelby has made significant strides toward a more
inclusive society.
Shelby was a beloved daughter, friend, and confidante. Her warmth and sense of humor
endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is preceded in death by her
father, Micheal Walker; her grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Shellie Riddick and Mr. and Mrs. John
Walker; aunts, Ivy Newsome, Delores Riddick, and Barbara Cunningham. Left to celebrate and
continue her legacy are her mother, Gloria Riddick-Walker; her sister, Crystal Watson; her
uncle, Marvin Riddick (Anita), six first cousins, 28 chosen children, and a host of special family
members and friends. Shelby was a woman of boundless love and a never-ending desire to
help others. May her spirit continue to inspire us all.