J W Walker

Escaping the confines of his mortality, JW Walker departed this life from Northwest Medical Center in Springdale, Arkansas January 12, 2010, transported as he believed, by heavenly escort into the presence of “The Author and Finisher” of his Faith. A gift of faith, compassion, love and strength to family and friends alike, he was born September 22, 1931 near Cameron, OK to Jack Walker and Neomi McConnell Walker, the last of nine children. Soon the family moved from Oklahoma by covered wagon to West Fork, Arkansas where he began the first grade in school. Taught by his oldest brother, he became an accomplished pianist of unusual talents, but found the greatest delights in hymns and songs of the church. While at West Fork, his academics kept pace with an interest in sports. He led the Tigers to State Championships in basketball and baseball earning a full scholarship to the University of Arkansas. While pursuing two degrees at the University of Arkansas "Shake Walker" led the Basketball Razorbacks to their first South West Conference Title. He earned his Masters Degree in Psychology and at its completion departed to fill a teaching position in Globe, Arizona. However, he fixed his sights on a higher calling to ministry, changed vocations and never looked back, staying focused on eternal things. After marriage, the musical duo continued to itinerate while fulfilling "The Great Commission." They accepted the pastorate of Northside Assembly of God Church in Fayetteville, Arkansas and later they also pastored churches in Commerce, Oklahoma and Siloam Springs, Arkansas. In subsequent years JW served hospitals in Northwest Arkansas as Chaplain. At death, he was chaplain for Hospice Circle of Life in Springdale. His parents and siblings precede him in death except for one surviving sister Esther Vocke of Fayetteville, Arkansas. JW is survived by his wife Ava Smothers of Fayetteville, Arkansas whom he married June 30, 1960. Nephews and nieces survive him as well as their extended families, along with countless friends and acquaintances. JW celebrated this past year with the Assemblies of God Fellowship, fifty years of Ordained Ministry. His absence in our lives leaves a void, but his presence with the Lord beckons us onward to the finish where mortality is swallowed up of Life Eternal. In lieu of flowers memorial donations are requested to The Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Road, Springdale, AR 72762. Funeral services will be Friday at 1:00 PM at First Assembly of God Springdale Church 1605 W. Robinson Ave. Springdale, Arkansas.

J W Walker

September 22, 1931 - January 12, 2010