James F. "Jim" Walker

Poland, OH - James "Jim" Frederick Walker, 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital. Jim was born July 9, 1940, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, son of the late J. Kenneth and Jean (Sloane) Walker. A spirited and determined young man, Jim defiantly took private flying lessons at age 16 when his parents refused to let him drive and "buzzed" their house waving his wings for emphasis. He graduated in 1958 from Westinghouse Memorial High School in Wilmerding, PA and earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Youngstown State University in 1972. Jim's dedication to his country was evident through his service in the US Army from 1960 to 1962, when he was stationed in Friedberg, Germany with the 3rd Armored Division. Jim looked forward to yearly reunions with other 3AD veterans, having traveled to Missouri, Nashville, and Washington D.C. Jim began his career in tax accounting with Clark & Collins and Alexander Grant and Company before establishing his own successful tax practice, sharing office space with colleagues who became dear friends along the way. His dedication to his clients and his profession spanned decades, developing lasting relationships with many of his clients. Jim continued his accounting work until his passing, which undoubtedly kept him sharp! His community work was extensive; as a young professional he was an active member of the Youngstown Junior Chamber of Commerce, a longtime and valued member of the Poland Presbyterian Church, where he served on the Administration and Investment Committees. Jim also served on the Finance Committee of the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley and served on the boards of Potential Development and Youngstown Hearing & Speech Center. Outside of his work and community service, Jim had many interests. His love of photography, all things technology and computers, aviation, the Pittsburgh Steelers and golf were well-known among his friends and family, as was his enjoyment of dining out (particularly at Steamers in North Lima!) Family was at the center of Jim's life. He cherished his role as a father and enjoyed participating in the YMCA Indian Princesses Program with his daughter Kristi and Indian Guides with his son Scott when they were young. Jim took pride in passing on his handy-man skills and strong sense of curiosity to his only son, Scott, who has carried on the tradition sharing those interests with Jim's grandson, James. He showed exceptional dedication to his daughter, Kristi, as she battled brain cancer. Jim and Sally tirelessly made trips from N.E. Ohio to Chicago and back, spending all time necessary to support her during her greatest time of need, showing limitless love and compassion. Jim is survived by his son, J. Scott (Tricia) Walker of Arlington, MA; his beloved grandson, James H. Walker; his brother, David K. (Elizabeth) Walker of Waynesburg, PA; and his former wife, Sally (Arnold) Walker of Boardman, OH; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Kristi K. Walker. As we remember Jim Walker, we celebrate a well-lived life marked by love, service, and faith. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished in the hearts of his loved ones forever. Family and friends may call on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Poland Presbyterian Church, 2 Manor Avenue in Poland. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Dr. Rev. Paul Anderson officiating. Jim will be laid to rest on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery with military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in memory of Jim to the following organizations: The American Brain Tumor Association, 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 550, Chicago, IL 60631 (www.abta.org), or to Poland Presbyterian Church, 2 Poland Manor, Poland, OH 44514, or to The United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley, 255 Watt Street, Youngstown, OH 44505 (www.ymvunitedway.org). Arrangements are being handled by Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main Street, Poland, OH 44514. Please visit www.beckerobits.com to share memories and offer condolences to Jim's family. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James "Jim" F. Walker, please visit our floral store.