James Frank "Jim" Walter

1943 - 2020

James "Jim" Frank Walter, of Hammond, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on December 15, at the age of 76. He was born December 30, 1943 in Gainesville, Texas, to the late Joe and Anna Walter. Jim grew up working in his father's lumber yard. A Texan at heart, he had the ability to fix anything, and he built the home in which he and his wife, Marguerite, happily raised their five children. He graduated from his beloved Subiaco Academy high school in Arkansas, where he was a competitive boxer. In his final year, Jim was elected "Mr. Subiaco." He pursued his literary passion, gaining an BA (English, cum laude), MA (English), and a PhD in Politics and Literature at the University of Dallas, where he met the love of his life, Marguerite Dansereau. He and Marguerite settled in Hammond, Louisiana, where he taught English at Southeastern Louisiana University for over 40 years. He was a teacher and mentor for many, and held various positions in the English department, and was awarded the President's Award for Excellence in Teaching. His extraordinary membership and participation in planning literary conferences and serving on University committees was prolific, as was his service to Holy Ghost Church and School, including serving as president of the School Board. He worked tirelessly to enhance the programs at SLU, securing grants and scholarships, always driven by his devotion to his students. He published many articles and a book, "Reading Marriage in the American Romance." He headed the Honors program at SLU for 18 years, borne of his love for advising students. A highlight of his career was traveling to Italy with his students and, of course, Marguerite. A devout Catholic and member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church, he will be remembered for his humble nature, his unfailing work ethic, his generous smile, and willingness to help anyone in need. His children will remember his love of books, his gentle nature, and their many adventures camping and fishing. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Marguerite Walter, and his children and their spouses, Alan Walter, Rachel and Michael DiResto, Annah and Pat Cave, Sarah and Matt Meigs, and Jacob and Julie Walter, and his twelve grandchildren, Quentin, Ella and Lucas DiResto, Frances, Louisa and Walker Cave, Elena, James and Thomas Meigs, and Andrew, Ben, and Helen Walter. He is also survived by his beautiful sisters, Florence Blevins and Rita Chapman. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Betty Sicking and Mary Jo Graham, and his brother John Walter. The family extends their sincere thanks to the staff of The Pearl at Jamestown and Amedisys Hospice for their excellent care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Ghost Catholic Church. A Funeral Mass will be held for family and friends at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 600 N. Oak Street, Hammond, Louisiana 70401. Face masks are mandatory to attend any visitation or service at the funeral home and we ask that you maintain a respectful distance with the family. Thank you for your cooperation. An online guestbook is available at www.harrymckneely.com.