James T. Walker, Sr.

James T. Walker, Sr., age 86, of West, passed away Thursday evening, March 6, 2008 at West Rest Haven. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday March 15, 2008 at Bold Springs Baptist Church with Rev. W.C. Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Liberty Rest Cemetery near West. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at Aderhold Funeral Home. Mr. Walker was born November 8, 1921 in Oklahoma, the son of Tom Walker and Myrtle Lee Smith. He was united in marriage to Johnnie B. Walker in 1939 in West. She preceded him in death on May 12, 1990. He was a Physical Therapist for West Community Hospital for several years before retiring in 1986. He also worked for The West News, Barton and Whalen's Cleaners, the Night Owl Club, and the City of West. James loved country and western music and he also loved to polka. He also enjoyed doing yard work and just visiting with people. He was a member of Bold Springs Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for 40 years. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, John Edward Walker in 1955; a sister, Lillie Bell Austin, and a grandson, Lionel Wady. Survivors include a son, James T. Walker, Jr. and wife Margaret of Killeen; three daughters, Myrtle A. Hemphill and husband Bloy of Hampton, VA, Johnnie C. Wady and husband Joe of Killeen, and Linda J. Gaither of West; seven grandchildren, J.J III and his wife Amelia, Carmen and her husband Jerry, Dee Dee and her husband Demetrice, Kevin and his wife Sonya, Suzanne, Desmona, and Tonya; thirteen great-grandchildren; a very special friend, Emmanuel Mitchell; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Memorials may be made to West Rest Haven Activity Fund or the Parkinson's Foundation.