Major James Ross Walker U.S. Army (Retired)

Major James Ross Walker U.S. Army (Retired), 85, passed away on November 5th, 2022.

Jim was preceded in death by his father and mother, LB and Viola Jolley Walker, his brother Alan Ray Walker and his son, Eric Ross Walker.

Major Walker was a veteran of the Vietnam War, a career Army Officer and a helicopter pilot who proudly served his country for 25 years. Major Walker’s Military awards and decorations include the Senior Army Aviator Badge; Distinguished Flying Cross (2nd award); Bronze Star Medal; Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award); 21 awards of the Air Medal; Air Medal with V (Valor) Device; Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award); Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal; Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Of equal importance to him were the life-long family friendships that came out of his time in the military. Of special note are the Craddock and Helmick families. They held a firm place in his heart. 

During his time in the military, he also earned a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Tampa.

After retiring from the military, Jim settled back in his hometown of Athens. He worked for Niota Textiles and after his 2nd retirement, worked for the Ridgewood Golf Club. He often spoke fondly of friends and colleagues at both Niota Textiles and Ridgewood.  Danny Ray and Carolyn Johnson were considered special life-long friends. 

He is survived by the love of his life, and wife of 60 years, Beverly Ann Hicks Walker;

2 Children Lisa Walker Dalton (Bryan) and James Kevin Walker.

5 Grandchildren, Danyell (Branden), Christine, Stefanie, Ben, and Jimmy,

3 Great-Grandchildren, Mayci, Logan, and Luke,

Goddaughter, Margaret Anne Helmick,

Sister-In-Law, Julia Walker,

Nieces, Jessica, Carolyn, and Mary Beth.

Jim was extremely devoted to and proud of his family.  He was a proud, quiet man who loved deeply and committed completely. He will be missed by us all.

Grave Services will be at 2 PM Monday, November 14, 2022, at McMinn Memory Gardens with full military honors.

Honorary pallbearers will be LTC John Helmick U.S. Army (Retired), Danny Ray Johnson, and Tony Brown.

If you are unable to attend the graveside service, you can sign the online registry at: www.zieglerfuneralhome.com

Ziegler Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Major James Ross Walker U.S. Army (Retired).