Leslie M. Walker

Leslie M. Walker, a horticulturist who lived in Springs for 35 years, died of an undetermined cause on July 26 in Winston-Salem, N.C. She was 67.

“She was a loving and dedicated mother, sister, wife, aunt, and grandmother,” said her husband, Dennis Walker of East Hampton. “Leslie will always be remembered for her kindness, enormous heart, and even warmer soul.”

She was born on Sept. 3, 1948, in Norwalk, Conn., to Edward Clarke and the former Margaret Mathews. Her father, who lives in upstate New York, survives.

Ms. Walker grew up in Summit, N.Y., attended Roy C. Ketcham High School in Wappingers Falls, N.Y., and earned a degree in horticulture and floriculture at the State  College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill. Later, she worked at Buckley’s Flower Shop in East Hampton, and tended to many private estates on the South Fork, her husband said. “Her knowledge of plants led her to create lavish gardens through the years that showcased her artistic vision,” he said. “She was fondly nicknamed the Plant Lady by friends due to her love and knowledge of different flora, and her gardens in her yard are envied by all her neighbors.”

Mr. and Ms. Walker were married in Southampton on Oct. 3, 1970. The couple lived on Front Street, where Ms. Walker assumed many roles over the years including den mother to Cub Scouts, Brownie leader, and equestrian mom. “Through these roles, she met and loved many of the children in the community,” her husband said, “often providing rides to and from games and practices.” She loved horses, he said.

A member of the East Hampton Presbyterian Church for many years, she served as a deacon and head of Christian education. She was also a member of the handbell choir and minister search committee. After Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in 2005, she volunteered for a mission to help those affected. “For all her time volunteering and teaching, she never wanted accolades or attention,” Mr. Walker said. “She exemplified true humility and humanity.”

In addition to her husband and father, Ms. Walker’s three children survive her. They are Dennis Walker Jr. of East Hampton, Jennifer Walker of Flanders, and Morgan Walker of Winston-Salem. Six siblings also survive: Lawrence Clarke of Charlottesville, N.C., David Clarke of Summit, Michael Clarke of Kernersville, N.C., Bonnie Walker of Culver City, Calif., Daisi Johnson of Colorado, and Christopher Clarke of Summit. Four grandchildren, a great-grandchild, and many nieces and nephews also survive.

Visiting hours are today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Yardley and Pino Funeral Home in East Hampton. A funeral will be held tomorrow at 11 a.m. at the East Hampton Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Nancy Howarth officiating. Burial will follow at the Wainscott Cemetery.

Ms. Walker’s family has suggested memorial contributions to the East Hampton Presbyterian Church, 120 Main Street, East Hampton 11937.