The Honorable James Kenneth Walker began his life on Jan.10,1936,in Decator, Texas, where he learned to love the game of golf. After graduating high school in Memphis, Texas, he attended Baylor University and was a member of the Baylor golf team, where he participated in the Southwest Conference. He was appointed to Pi Sigma Alpha and Phi Alpha Delta honorary fraternities.
Jim continued his education, attending Baylor School of Law. After receiving his Doctorate in Jurisprudence, he began his career in Lubbock, Texas. In 1960, he married Mary Frank Garrett. They had two sons, Jimmy and Steven. In 1963, they moved to Morton, Texas, where he served as County Attorney and was involved in the community.
He married Jo Beth Barnes in 1978. (He gained two daughters; Valerie and Kristie!) His third daughter, Ann, was born in 1979. In 1984, the family moved to Levelland, Texas, where Jim became Judge of the 286th District. After a few years, he served the state of Texas as a visiting judge. He was selected by the Tarrant County Bar Association as the “Best Trial Judge” for two years.
Jim served on many committees for the State Bar of Texas and was a guest speaker for Texas Tech School of Law (only because he did not have a prior commitment at Baylor). He supported student scholarships at South Plains College and served his community on numerous boards. He was a charter member of the Lubbock Woodworkers and a member of the Lubbock Wood Carvers Association.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sherry Taylor; and wife, Mary Frank.
Jim is survived by wife, Jo Beth; children Jimmy, Steven ( Jessica), Valerie Robertson, Kristie Yeary (Bret) and Ann Walker; grandchildren Matt Walker, Ryan Walker, Garrett Walker, Dania Valesquez, Nathan Yeary, John Yeary and Liam Jenkins; and great-grandchild Giselle Valesquez.
Visitation was held at Krestridge Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023.
A Celebration of Life was held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug.10,2023, at First Methodist Church, 1011 Houston, Levelland. Pallbearers were Chris Berry, Wayne Butler, Jeff Groves, Rick Hodge, Dean Sanders and Todd Willingham. Honorary Pallbearers were Steve Caudle, Ben Colburn, Joe Hinson, Rev. Jesse Hodge, Mickey Hoyl,Derek Schulle, Rick Slaughter, Gary Willingham, Rodney McQueen, Winfred McQueen and all his golfing buddies around the United States. Graveside service followed at 4 p.m. in Memphis.
Memorial gifts can be sent to First Methodist Church Levelland.
Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Krestridge Funeral Home, 806-897-1111.
