James Edward “Jimmy” Walker, Sr., 80, of Troutville, passed away Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital following a long illness.
Jimmy was born in Roanoke August 12, 1942 and lived in Botetourt all of his life. He was the son of the late Arthur E. Walker and the late Virginia J. Lynch Farrar. Jimmy was a rock mason for 50 years and was owner of Little Jim’s Stone Yard. He was a school bus driver for 22 years for Botetourt County Public Schools. Jimmy enjoyed working and working in the out-of-doors. His hobby was family, especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his son, James Edward Walker, Jr.; daughter, Virginia Darlene McLaughlin; and his sister, Patricia Dudley.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Lorene Ayers Walker; daughters, Chassidy (Christopher) West of Buchanan, and Teresa (Barry) Kinzie of Troutville; grandchildren, Michael Morris, Matthew Morris, Charity Gaylor, Ian McLaughlin, Damion West, and Desirhea West; great-grandchildren, Drew Morris, William Weden, Gabryle Weden, Arabella Weden, Emmett Landis, and Dalilah West; brother, Johnny (Sandra) Weiss of Blue Ridge; neighbors, Jerry and Inga Reed; and very dear friends, Rory “Tater” Benson and Dave Smith.
A celebration of Jimmy’s life was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, September 3 at Rader Funeral Home, Daleville. His family received friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Cancer Center, 2013 South Jefferson Street, Roanoke, 24014. Online condolences may be made to the family and funeral service live-stream may be found at www.rader-funeralhome.com/tributes/James-Walker.