William "Frankie" Walker

 

A funeral service celebrating the life of William “Frankie” Walker, 64, will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home Coushatta chapel. Interment will follow in Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in the Martin community. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Monday, December 11, 2023, at the funeral home.

Frankie was born on July 3, 1959, in Coushatta, LA to William Albert “Muchie” and Betty Lou Thomas Walker and passed December 8, 2023, in Shreveport, LA, surrounded by his loving family after a long hard-fought battle with cancer.

Our daddy was a man who never met a stranger and had a unique fondness for shaking hands with famous individuals such as Johnny Cash, Clint Eastwood and Ice Cube to name a few, rather than seeking their autographs.  His infectious humor brightened the lives of everyone he encountered, reflecting his caring and generous nature.  His ability to connect with people made him unforgettable to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His tales of waking up at 5 AM to milk cows before school added a charming touch to his vibrant personality.  While he milked many cows over the years, only one held a special place in his heart, his sweet Betsy.  His humorous memories about those early morning experiences showcased not only his wit but also the resilience and simplicity that shaped his character.

His love for his family and friends was a cornerstone of his life. His caring nature extended beyond words, and he was known for actively checking in on others and offering a helping hand. His compassionate acts exemplified the impact of simple gestures and demonstrated the true essence of family and community.

His true pride and joy lay in his bride of 42 years, his children and grandchildren - his greatest accomplishments. When he wasn't coaching his children in Biddy Basketball and Biddy Baseball, he made it a point to be our loudest cheerleader. His love for travel was spontaneous and he visited all but four states in the USA. Those long road trips created many memories that we will cherish and forever hold dear to our hearts. The love and dedication he poured into his family created a legacy that will endure through generations. reflecting the impact of a life well lived.

Frankie was preceded in death by his grandparents, J. Frank and Mary Thomas; parents, Muchie and Betty Lou Walker; sister-in-law, Diana Leigh Walker; nephew, Clay Daniel Walker; and special father-in-law, Walter Frank Arnold.  Left to cherish his memory are his loving bride, Teresa Arnold Walker; sons, William Bradley Walker and J. B. Walker (Samantha); daughters, Brandy Bruso (Robert) and Brittany Baldwin (Clay); sister, Judy Latiolais (Chad); brother, Steven Walker (Rebecca); and grandchildren, Ethan and Alisyn Bruso, Gracie Leigh, William Trenton, Breanna Baldwin, Waylon “Willie” Baldwin, Leah Walker and Kate Walker; partner-in-crime, Jeff “Pop” Prescott; special cousin, Randy Thomas, Sr.; and a generous host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Taking the last walk with him will be Waylon “Willie” Baldwin, J. B. Walker, Brad Walker, Gracie Leigh, Leah Walker, Trent Walker, and Ethan Bruso.  Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Billy Gaston, Brian Bradshaw, Dustin Palmer, and Matthew Thomas.