Jimmy Roger Walker

Walker, Jimmy Roger

a devoted husband, father, and proud Poppy, passed away peacefully at his daughter and son-in-law's home in St. Petersburg, FL on Friday, March 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Jimmy spent the majority of his life in Robertsdale, AL, where his roots ran deep. Over the years, he also called Texas, New York, and eventually Florida home, always carrying his Southern warmth and work ethic with him wherever he went.

He proudly served six years in the Army National Guard - a reflection of his strong sense of duty and love for his country.

He is preceded in death by his father, James Brice Walker; mother, Gerleen Rhudy Walker; stepfather, Robert Raymond Melvin, Sr.; brother, Jerry Lee Walker, and his wife Susan Walker; and nephews, Logan C. Melvin and James Walker.

Jimmy is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Ginger Platt Walker; his daughter, Ashley Walker Parks; his son-in-law, Lucas Parks; and his two beloved grandchildren, Violet and Walter Parks, who were truly the light of his life and who lovingly called him Poppy. He is also survived by his sister, Dianne LeMaire (late Harris LeMaire, Jr.); brother, Gene Walker; sister, Carol D. Heaton (married to Mark A. Heaton); brother, Ronnie Walker (Michelle Walker); brother, Tony Glenn Walker (late Valerie Walker); brother, Robert "Bobby" Melvin; and brother, Thomas Lee Melvin (Sherry Melvin); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Jimmy spent much of his life on the road as a long-haul truck driver, building a lifetime of memories with his wife and daughter during those travels. After retiring from trucking, he found joy operating heavy machinery - a place where he truly came alive.

In his later years, Jimmy continued his lifelong calling to serve others by working in a retirement community. He often said, "No one is taking care of these elders - it's the least I can do." That servant's heart was nothing new; Jimmy lived as a faithful steward of Christ. As a deacon at Bethel Baptist Church in Robertsdale, he was known for his quiet acts of kindness - building ramps, tending yards, and making home repairs for the widows in his congregation.

A gifted craftsman, Jimmy could build or fix just about anything. And though he rarely took time to slow down, he enjoyed fishing - even if not nearly as often as he would've liked.

Jimmy also had a special place in his heart for his dogs, who were faithful companions throughout his life. Most recently, he was rarely seen without his beloved sidekick, Dora, who passed away just weeks before him in January 2025. Their bond was deep, and her passing felt like part of his own story coming full circle.

Jimmy leaves behind a legacy of faith, humility, and hard work. He read the Word daily, prayed continually, and lived to serve others. His walk was one of quiet strength and unwavering belief, and his testimony reflected the truth he lived by: that God is with us through it all. He will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his tireless work ethic, and most of all, his enduring faith. He will be deeply missed and loved forever.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

- 2 Timothy 4:7

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