Yolanda Nicole Walker

Dr. Yolanda Nicole “Nikki” Walker

February 2, 1977 – June 23, 2025

With hearts full of sorrow and love, we announce the passing of Dr. Yolanda Nicole “Nikki” Walker—a beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, visionary leader, and fierce advocate for equity and community voice. Nikki transitioned from this life leaving a legacy that will ripple through generations.

Born on February 2, 1977, to Sharon and Marvin Walker, Nikki was destined to lead with both fire and grace. She also shared a cherished bond with her “Special Dad,” Melvin Hilton, whose influence helped shape her unwavering sense of self and determination.

Nikki’s proudest role was being the mother of her beloved son, Jacob Enis—affectionately known to many as “Lavish Jay.” Her love for him was boundless, her greatest joy, and her most enduring purpose. She often described motherhood as her most sacred calling, and in Jacob, she saw and nurtured brilliance, courage, and creativity.

A devoted sister, Nikki is survived by one sister, Marcia Mechele Walker and two brothers, Marvin John Walker, and Jordan Lymar Walker who knew her as a passionate protector, source of endless laughter, and a guiding light. One niece Mia Rose Sharperson and one nephew Jamil Mosiah Harris. She also leaves to mourn her bonus sister, Shakeema Bryant and bonus brother Walter Little. To her family, she was not just a relative, but a compass, anchoring them with strength and compassion in both triumph and trial. Nikki is mourned and cherished by many aunts and uncles.

A graduate of Lincoln High School and attended Trenton State University. Nikki’s thirst for knowledge and her passion for storytelling led her back to the classroom where she was actively pursuing a degree in Communications at Western Governors University. True to form, she believed that learning never stopped, and she was determined to model that belief in everything she did. Most recently, Nikki was awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and honorary doctorate from Empire University.

Professionally, Nikki was a powerhouse. She started her career in New York with Angelo Ellerby and Pierce Matte as a trailblazing publicist. As an entrepreneur she created her PR agency NWPR. Known across Utah and the nation as a dynamic communications strategist, diversity champion, and mentor, she served with distinction as the founder of NWPR, a boutique public relations firm that elevated the stories and strategies of countless organizations and changemakers. Nikki was also a trusted advisor and former Board Member of the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce, where she chaired the Small Business Advisory Committee and helped shape inclusive economic pathways for underserved communities.

Nikki believed in using her voice and platform to challenge inequity, uplift others, and amplify the unheard. She moved through the world with an unmatched mix of boldness and empathy. Whether she was mentoring a young entrepreneur, organizing a campaign, or offering encouragement to a friend in need, she was fully present—fiercely loyal and endlessly giving.

To know Nikki was to experience truth, tenacity, and tremendous love. She showed up for others even when it cost her personally, offering wisdom beyond her years and strength that often defied human limits. Her laughter lit rooms. Her insight transformed hearts. Her vision sparked revolutions—in business, in community, and in spirit.

Nikki is preceded in death by her father, Marvin Walker, her first son Vincent D. Miles, and one sister Sharon Yvette Walker.

As we grieve her passing, we celebrate her impact. Dr. Yolanda Nicole Walker lived a life of purpose and passion. Her legacy will forever be etched in the lives she touched, the movements she championed, and the son she leaves behind, who carries the torch of her brilliance into the future.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Nikki Walker Memorial Fund,

https://everloved.com/life-of… established to support her son Jacob’s future and continue the work Nikki held close to her heart.

Rest in power, Nikki. You were, and will always be, unforgettable.