Willie James Walker

Services for Mr. Willie James Walker, 88, of Columbia, South Carolina will be held on Monday, July 15, 2024 at 11:00 am in the Pearson's Funeral Home-Chapel 4508 N. Main Street, Columbia, South Carolina with the burial  following in the Columbia, Memorial Gardens 9301 Wilson Blvd. Columbia, South Carolina . There will be a viewing on Sunday from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the Pearson's Funeral Home. Mr. Willie Walker was born on December 4, 1935, in Denmark, South Carolina to the late Alfred and Myra Moses Walker. Though a man of few words, when Willie spoke, his wisdom commanded our attention. His presence was felt in every room, not by the volume of his voice, but by the strength of his character and the depth of his insights. Willie was a passionate pinochle and poker player, finding joy and camaraderie around the card table. He was a dedicated sports enthusiast, a loyal supporter of the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Falcons, holding season ticket and attending games with fervor. His love for sports extended to the Washington Redskins and Gamecocks, teams he cheered for with unwavering enthusiasm. A proud veteran, Willie was a member of VFW Post 4262 and American Legion Post 215. He cherished the time spent with his fellow veterans, playing cards and sharing stories. In his leisure, he found solace and joy in fishing, a pastime that brought him peace and deep connection with nature. Willie served his country with honor in the U.S. Army from February 27, 1953 to May 24, 1977, a field Wireman in the 82nd Airborne Division. His service was distinguished by numerous accolades including the National Defense Service Medal, Parachutist Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal. His Commitment to his country was unwavering ,and his bravery was an inspiration to all who knew him. After retiring from the military, Willie pursued further education, earning an Associate's Degree in Public Service in Human Services and Mental Health from Midlands Technical College on May 31, 1978. His dedication to helping others led him to a fulfilling career as a counselor at the Department of Juvenile Justice State Correctional Services, where he worked for 26, years until his retirement on September 1, 1994. Willie life was a testament to the values of service, dedication, and love. He touched many lives through his work, his friendships, and his unwavering support for his family and community. His legacy is one of strength, compassion, and a quiet, enduring wisdom that will continue to inspire  those who had the privilege of knowing him. As we reflect on Willi's remarkable life, we celebrate the countless ways he enriched our lives. His memory will forever be cherished, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. Rest in peace Willie J. Walker. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, and you are loved beyond words. In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his wife, Mary L. Crawford-Walker; his sister, Magdeline Walker and Edna Mae Alverez; brothers, Alfred Walker, Jessie Lee (Maggie)Walker and Elliott L. (Mary Frances) Walker. He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his children, Bedredia W.Stribling, Varner Keefe (Velvet) Walker and Derek Walker; daughter-in-law, Michelle Simmons; seven grandchildren, Veneshia Walker-Stribling, Xavier Walker, Vashti Walker, Devin Walker, Roni Wimby, Micah Walker and Amasa Walker; five great grandchildren, Mercedes Guzman-Walker, Beverly Walker, Sandra Walker and Veronica Alverez; a host of other family, neighbors and fiends.

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