What is Walker Chapel?

Walker Chapel United Methodist Church, home to the Walker Chapel Historic Cemetery and Columbarium.

That’s a wonderful question because the name surprises many people; it isn’t a church or cathedral.

It is a Chapel because 150 years ago it was formed by meeting in people’s homes. The first pastor built the first chapel with his own hands. We are now a church, which means we can welcome all to the table and share the breaking of the bread and the wine (actually, grape juice because Methodists don’t allow alcohol in the church). Much has changed since the first chapel in the 1800’s, to a small but prettier chapel in the 1900’s, to today’s beautiful chaptel.

We’re still trying to do the same simple things: love God, love our neighbors, (repeat) and welcome anyone seeking peace.

The FAQs,  folders,  articles and pages shown may be helpful:

  Are there historic trees in Walker Chapel Cemetery?

There once stood another cherry tree at the edge of the Cemetery near the first Walker Chapel. It was so large and beautiful that it became one of Arlington County's "Noble" trees. It lived over 100 years and sadly died in 2021. There are many Eastern Red Cedars in the Cemetery that are more than 100 years old. We planted a 12' Easter Red Cedar near where the Noble Cherry tree stood and look forward to it becoming our "Noble" tree in the centuries to come.

  Can non-Christians use the Walker Chapel Columbarium?

Yes. Walker Chapel welcomes all families who respect the sacred and historic nature of the cemetery grounds.

  Can you scatter ashes in the Walker Chapel Historic Cemetery?

Ashes may be buried or placed in the Walker Chapel Columbarium, never scattered. Biodegradable urns may be placed in an urn bag and buried. Non-biodegradable urns require a concrete urn vault.

  Can I visit before making a decision?

This is strongly recommended. Your own eyes provide the best answers. At Walker Chapel, families are encouraged to visit, walk the grounds, and spend time reflecting before selecting a niche. A personal visit often answers questions that are difficult to address through photographs alone. Tours are available by appointment, and the cemetery grounds remain open for quiet visitation.

  The Story of the Cherry Tree

No one knows the exact moment when the great tree began its quiet reign at the center of Walker Chapel Historic Cemetery, its sheltering limbs stretched wide, embracing those laid to rest beneath its gentle shade. Perhaps it has stood for fifty years, or maybe closer to a century. Yet, with a little research, we believe we have uncovered its origin.

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Because the greatest gift we can leave our family is not simply our memories; it is a place where those memories can live

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You are welcome here!  Open a private conversation with NOAH, our nom de plume, to ask questions, get answers, and leave your footprints in the sand as we journey towards the best for you and your family.

No obligation. No sales pressure. Simply come see the cemetery, ask questions, and discover whether Walker Chapel feels right for your family.