Perry Walker

Perry Dale Walker, age 72, of Holts Summit, Mo., passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on May 14, 1953, in Jefferson City, Mo., the son of Walter Ralph and Dolly Mae (Richardson) Walker. After meeting at a disco club and dating for just eight days, Perry married the love of his life, Pamela Anne "Pam" Dodd, on June 24, 1979, in Little Rock, Arkansas.
After graduating from Jefferson City High School in 1971, Perry joined the United States Air Force through the JROTC program and graduated from the Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Academy in 1989. During his 20-year military career, he served with distinction as a Technical Sergeant, including deployments to Vietnam and Operation Desert Shield. Throughout his service, Perry earned numerous commendations, including the Air Force Commendation Medal and the COMSAT Readiness Medal, among others. He was honorably discharged in 1991.
Following his military service, Perry began a successful civilian career as the Dealer Licensing Section Supervisor with the Missouri Department of Revenue. He retired from that role in 2012. During his tenure, Perry was honored as Missouri State Employee of the Year and received a commendation and certificate of recognition from former Governor Mel Carnahan.
Though Perry served with distinction, his heart was always with his family. Family was everything to him. He cherished weekend family dinners, where stories were shared and laughter filled the room. He found joy in the simple things-people-watching at Schulte's, taking trips to the Missouri State Fair, camping, and weekend getaways to Branson. He loved coming home after temporary duty assignments, walking through the door with a smile and open arms. Perry was never happier than when surrounded by his loved ones, whom he adored and lovingly spoiled. He was their biggest fan, whether he was fishing with them, playing Uno and dominoes, or just being the doting goofball who always made them feel like the most important people in the world. He was always the life of every party and made everyone feel like family. He also treasured breakfast outings with his son and son-in-law-moments he held close to his heart.
Perry's love for his wife, Pam, was steadfast and deep. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and adventure. They loved traveling, sharing quiet moments, and spending time at the Non-Commissioned Officers Club-a place where many fond memories were made.
To know Perry was to know kindness, warmth, and the biggest goofball you'd ever meet. He had a generous heart, a quick wit, and a gift for making people laugh. Whether cracking jokes, lending a helping hand, or lighting up the room with his infectious spirit, Perry left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His gentle soul, sense of humor, and boundless love will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Pam; children, Kristina Cannon (Chris) of Holts Summit, Mo., Meghan Moeller (Nathan) of California, Mo., and Joseph Walker (Samantha), of Wooldridge, Mo.; grandchildren, Sammie Moody-Walker (Damian), Cole Cannon, Jackson Cannon, Wade Moeller, Riley Moeller, Corbin Moeller, Wyatt Walker, and Eva Walker;, numerous nieces and nephews; and his brother-in-law, Harold Gabelsberger.
Perry is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Dolly Walker; sisters, Marilyn Burnett, and Betty Gabelsberger; and his brother-in-law, Bill Burnett.
Visitation will be held at Freeman Mortuary from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., Monday, July 28, 2025.
A funeral service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m., Monday, July 28, 2025, in the Freeman Chapel with Pastor Jim Walker officiating. Graveside service with military honors will follow his service at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.
A webcast of Perry's service will begin at 3:00 p.m., Monday, for friends that are not able to attend by going to this memorial page and clicking the "Watch Now" button.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Central Missouri Honor Flight, 1400 Forum Blvd., Ste. 7-A, Box 334, Columbia, Mo., 65203.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.