Tommy Walker died at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, January 15, 2019. Tommy was the son of Thompson Wirt Walker Sr. and Lottie Robertson Walker (Coffman). He was a resident of Monticello, AR for over 85 years. Tommy was born in Greenville, Alabama on June 30, 1923 and moved to Monticello when he was nine years old. He graduated from Monticello High School in 1941 and became interested in radio and communications through the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp.) He joined the United States Navy in August of 1942 and did his basic training in San Diego, CA. While in the Navy, he enhanced his interest in radio by becoming a 1st Class Radioman on the U.S.S Saratoga, an aircraft carrier responsible for many missions in the Pacific Theater. He proudly traveled with the admiral on the Flag Ship Saratoga. After the end of the war he was discharged in New York City's famous Pier 90 on the U.S.S. Missouri on December 10, 1945. After returning to civilian life he met and married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Murry in October of 1947. He worked as a manager over the shipping and dying department for Burlington Industries carpet factory in Monticello for 34 years until his retirement in 1981. After retirement he enjoyed working in his yard and big garden every year and continued his love of communications through listening to his ham radio.
He is survived by two children, Charles Newton Walker (Liz) of Baton Rouge, LA and Lou Strain (Mike) of Conway, AR; one sister Hazel Honey McKee of Rockport, TX and her son Danny Honey (Kensey) of Little Rock, AR. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Pat Walker who died in January of 2008. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Christie Walker Davila, Murry Walker (LeeAnn), Erin Wilkes (Mark), Cidney Mitchell (David), and Mark Strain; his great grandchildren: Christian, Grayson, Ivy, Peyton, Baylee Ann, Lane, Maggie, Lucian, Avery and Ellis.
A special thanks to Ms. Cherry Miller who was much more than a caretaker, practically a member of the family.
Tommy will be laid to rest at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 19, 2019, in Oakland Cemetery in Monticello alongside is wife, mother, father and step-father. Arrangements by Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(3)
Carole Hughson
Little Rock, AR Wednesday, January 16, 2019 Charlie and Lou,I am very sad to hear of the passing of your dad. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
Carole Jeanne
Carole
Little Rock, AR Wednesday, January 16, 2019 Charles and Lou,I am very sad to read of the death of your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Carole Jeanne
Mark Edler
New Iberia, LA Tuesday, January 15, 2019 So sorry to hear about your loss CW and Liz. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.