Walker D. Durham "Dennis"

Mr. Walker Dennis Durham, affectionately known as Dennis, passed away on February 10, 2025, at Emory Hillandale Hospital in Lithonia, GA, at the age of 72. Born in Saginaw, MI, on September 9, 1952, to the late Walker and Arabella Durham, Dennis relocated to Stone Mountain, GA, in October 2014.

Dennis attended Seventh Day Adventist School in Freeland, MI, before continuing his education at Houghton Elementary, Central Junior High, and Arthur Hill Technical High School in Saginaw, MI, from which he graduated in 1970. He later pursued training in Robotics Technologies at Delta College. Dennis dedicated 40 years of service to General Motors, retiring in 2004. Throughout his career, he worked as a sole operator in the Briquette Plant, specializing in robotics, iron pouring, and operating heavy-duty machinery.

Beyond his professional life, Dennis had a deep passion for history, often dedicating hours to researching online and watching educational channels such as Discovery, History, and YouTube to expand his knowledge. He had a love for cooking, frequently experimenting with new recipes and perfecting his BBQ skills. An avid bowler and fisherman, Dennis also enjoyed watching sports, classic Western films, and admiring vintage cars.

His personal sanctuary, the "man cave," was where he could often be found listening to jazz and oldies, soaking in the music he loved. He also spent countless hours working on various projects in his garage, notably restoring his cherished 1973 American Motors AMX Javelin, a car he inherited from his father. Dennis was affectionately known as a "Jack-of-All-Trades" for his remarkable skills in electrical work, plumbing, automotive repairs, and construction. He could fix almost anything—there was never a need to call a repairman with him around. A man of unwavering faith, Dennis never missed his daily Bible verses, which he held close to his heart.

A dedicated member of the Southland Soaring Seniors Group and the Southland Bowling Team in Stone Mountain, Dennis formed lasting friendships and shared many happy moments with his teammates and fellow group members.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Hazel Durham, of Stone Mountain, GA; his son, Dennis Durham, also of Stone Mountain, GA; his sister, Lynette Durham of Saginaw, MI; and his brothers, Lorenso Durham and Cary Durham, both of Saginaw, MI. He also leaves behind three sisters-in-law: Shellie (Robert) Bell, Nancy (Norris) Joseph, and Georgia Footé, all of Saginaw, MI, and Lake Elsinore, CA; and two brothers-in-law: Larry Jackson of Washington, DC, and Ronald H. Footé, MD, of Las Vegas, NV. Dennis is further survived by his former brother-in-law, Walter Gibson, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who held a special place in his heart.

Among those closest to him was his beloved niece and personal chef, Sheryl Durham, of Michigan, who brought much joy into his life. He is also survived by his special nephew, Teruo Gibson, whose encouragement and support were a constant source of strength for him. Dennis was fortunate to have a cousin, Diane Durham-Sabbs, whose love and unwavering support provided him with both comfort and encouragement throughout his life.

Dennis will be fondly remembered by his lifelong friends, including Gregory Wilson, Henderson Foster, Marvin Clark, Bruce Russ, Robert Bell, Robert Thomas, Eddie El-Amin, and Alvin Sabbs Sr. He also leaves behind his cherished pet, Rubbie, a miniature all-black Schnauzer, who brought him much joy and companionship.

He was predeceased by his parents, Walker and Arabella Durham; mother-in-law, Tommie L. Jackson; his brothers, Louis Durham and Alvin O'Neal Murphy; his sister-in-law, Vivian Durham; and his grandparents, Isaiah and Fannie Durham, and Wardell and Lavada Blackshear.

Dennis will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will be cherished forever.

The family would like to express special thanks to the staff at Emory Hillandale Hospital ICU Unit, Lithonia, GA; Paul Boyce, MD, MPH, and staff at Pulmonary Critical Care of Atlanta, GA; Hector Cajigas, MD, Pulmonary and Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Stephen Stewart, MD, Family Practice, Tucker, GA.