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1942 Rev. James Hughes Walker 2025

Rev. James Hughes Walker

September 20, 1942 — October 19, 2025

Old Fort

Rev. James Hughes Walker, 83, of Old Fort, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC.

Born in McDowell County on September 20, 1942, James was the son of the late Harold Walker and Nancy Ledford Walker. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and beloved pastor who cherished his family and his church family deeply. James had a passion for fishing and was known for his friendly nature—he never met a stranger and was a true friend to all. He had been preaching for over forty years. He had been preaching at Catawba Heights Baptist Church for the last eighteen years. Whether sharing stories around the dinner table or offering counsel from the pulpit, his presence was a source of comfort and light. He found great joy in the fellowship of his church community.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two of his children, James R. Walker and Stephen Walker, as well as seven siblings.

Those left to cherish his memory include the mother (Donna) to his four sons; two sons, Jonathan Walker (Herb) and Joseph Walker (Anglia); a sister, Sharon Smith (Ted); a brother, Larry Walker; six grandchildren, James Walker (wife and kids), Christopher Walker, Spencer Walker (wife and kids), Cody Gilliam (wife), Jacob Walker, and Dylan Walker; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved extended family.

A celebration of life will be taking place on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Catawba Heights Baptist Church. The celebration of life will begin at 6:00 PM.

Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit endures in every laugh shared, every prayer whispered, and every act of love inspired by his example.

To send flowers to the family in memory of Rev. James Hughes Walker, please visit our flower store.

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Celebration of Life

Friday, October 24, 2025

Starts at 6:00 pm (Eastern time)

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