Adrian Salley-Walker

Obituary For Adrian Salley-Walker

A devoted husband, loving father, and cherished son, Adrian gained his wings on June 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Born on January 16, 1990, in Manhattan, NY, Adrian spent his early years in the Bronx, where he formed the foundation of his character. He loved his time in New York, especially the time spent with family. Growing up with his younger brothers, Marcellous and Hassan, and surrounded by the love of his mom, aunts, stepdad, and grandmothers, Adrian developed a deep understanding of what family meant early in life. He embraced every moment with his loved ones, learning how to be a protector, leader, and provider—skills that would guide him throughout his life. Whether it was bonding over good food, sharing countless laughs, or simply being together, family was everything to Adrian.

His love for movies was nurtured by his mother, Leslie, and his grandmother, Sandra. Together, they would spend hours watching and analyzing films, building memories that Adrian always spoke of with pride and fondness. It was through these moments that his deep passion for cinema and storytelling began—a passion that would stay with him throughout his life.

At 15, after the passing of his beloved mother, Adrian and his brother Marcellous relocated to Jacksonville, FL, to live with their father George, stepmother, and sisters and further expanded his family values. There, he completed high school at Terry Parker High, and began to shape a future built on resilience, love, and family.

After graduation, Adrian returned to New York, where he spent several formative years enjoying time with his family and establishing himself. During this time, he took on the role of caregiver when his grandmother, Sandra, fell ill, demonstrating his deep sense of responsibility and love. Adrian learned how to be a provider for his family, a role he embraced fully, by putting others first. It was here, surrounded by family and the city he loved, that Adrian continued to grow into the man who would later become a devoted husband and father.

It was also during his time in New York that Adrian met Rachel, the love of his life. Although they worked at the same company, their romantic relationship didn’t begin until after Adrian had moved on to a new role. A few years later, he relocated to Raleigh, NC, where he strengthened his bond with his older brothers, Germaine and George, as well as his older cousin, RL—all of whom he deeply admired and looked up to as role models. He eventually settled in Atlanta, where he and Rachel reconnected. Their love reignited quickly and became the foundation of the beautiful life they built together.

Adrian’s heart was as big as his laugh. A light-hearted, fun-loving spirit, his infectious laughter could brighten any room and put a smile on anyone’s face. His warmth and joy were felt deeply by everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A self-proclaimed gamer and movie enthusiast, Adrian immersed himself fully in his passions—whether it was Star Wars, anime, sci-fi epics, or Marvel blockbusters. For Adrian, these weren’t just pastimes; they were an integral part of who he was, and he eagerly shared them with those he loved.

Adrian was a proud and devoted father who treasured every moment with his children. Whether it was imaginary play, dance parties in the living room, swim lessons, or simply watching their favorite shows together, he was always present, creating lasting memories full of love and laughter.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Leslie Salley; his cherished stepmother, Yvonne Walker; his stepdad, Hassan Ray Sr.; his aunt Judith Wallace-Willis; his loved and cherished grandmother Sandra Moore; and his great-grandmother Cora Mansur.

Adrian is survived by his devoted wife, Rachel; their two young children, Amara (6) and Elijah (1), the light of his life; and their beloved furbabies, Woody and Lily. He is also survived by his father, George T. Walker Jr.; brothers George Walker III (Katrina), Germaine Walker (Sabrina), Marcellous Salley-Walker (Nyasia), and Hassan Salley-Ray; sisters Shatara Avery-Mann (Roderick) and Staci Grant (Nicklos); sisters-in-law Crystal Hilyard (Malik), Mellissa Wallace (Curtis), and Kendra Brown (Trevor); mother-in-law Sandra Berry; aunts Yvonne Gunter, Hassina Ray, Bilqis Mansur, and Cynthia Howard; 12 nephews; 8 nieces; and a large extended family of cousins and dear friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.
Adrian’s kindness, humor, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, June 28, 2025, 4:00 pm at American Cremation & Funeral Service.