george willis walker
1924-2015
Life Story
Biography
Birth: July 2, 1924
Death: November 22, 2015
Burial: Biloxi National Cemetery, Biloxi, Mississippi
Early Life
George Willis Walker was born on July 2, 1924, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Robert Walker (1893–1966) and Cordelia Donald Walker (1896–1966). He was one of twelve siblings in the Walker family, a large and well-known household within the St. John community. Like many young men of his generation, George worked as a farmer in his early life, helping support his family through agricultural labor.
He joined St. John Missionary Baptist Church at an early age, beginning a lifetime of faith and service that would later define him as a church leader both in Newton County and on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Military Service
During World War II, George was drafted into the U.S. Army and served honorably from 1943 to 1946. His years in service strengthened his discipline, leadership, and sense of responsibility. After receiving an Honorable Discharge, he returned to Newton County to begin building a family and a new chapter of his life.
Marriage and Family
Upon returning home after the war, George married Luberda Burks Walker (1928–2010). Their marriage spanned sixty years and was marked by deep partnership, faith, and devotion to family.
Together they raised five children:
- Margaret Ann Walker (1950–1973)
- Larry Walker
- Maggie Walker Mingo
- Jerome Walker
- Robert Walker
The Walkers later relocated to Gulfport, Mississippi, where they became pillars of both church and community life.
Church Leadership and Community Service
In Gulfport, George became a dedicated and deeply respected leader within Forrest Heights Missionary Baptist Church. His service included:
- Deacon
- President of the Usher Board
- Sunday School Teacher
- Chief Advisor to the Usher Board
His leadership style reflected wisdom, humility, and a genuine commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and unity within the congregation. Deacon Walker was known for his steady presence and his willingness to serve wherever needed.
Career
George Walker retired from the Veterans Administration Hospital in Gulfport after many years as a civil servant, continuing a lifetime connection to veteran support following his own military service. His work with the VA earned him respect throughout the Gulf Coast community.
Death and Burial
Deacon George Willis Walker was called home to eternal rest in the early morning hours of Sunday, November 22, 2015, at the age of 91.
Visitation and funeral services were held at Forrest Heights Missionary Baptist Church, where he had spent so many years serving faithfully.
He was interred on November 30, 2015, at Biloxi National Cemetery, where he rests alongside other veterans who served their country with honor.
Legacy
George Willis Walker is remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a dedicated churchman, a veteran, and a respected community servant. His life reflects the values of faith, service, perseverance, and quiet leadership. Through his family, his church, and the many lives he touched across Mississippi, his legacy continues.
Resting Place
Biloxi National Cemetery, Biloxi, Mississippi
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- Sun Herald, Margaret Walker Obituary, Fri, Mar 02, 1973 ·Page 2
- Sun Herald, Luberda Burks Walker Obituary, Thu, Apr 22, 2010 ·Page A8
- The Newton Record, Cordelia Donald Walker Obituary, Wed, Apr 06, 1966 ·Page 11
- U.S. City Directories, 1822-1995
- U.S. Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 1
- U.S. Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 2
- U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010
- U.S. Veterans’ Gravesites, ca.1775-2006
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