James Howell Walker

James Howell Walker, 70, passed away unexpectedly at home following a lengthy illness Monday evening, March 8, 2010. He was born September 8, 1939 in Gallipolis, Ohio, the son of the late James Davison Walker and Mary Jeanne Howell Walker. A graduate of Gallia Academy High School in 1959, he joined the U.S. Marine Corp. Following service, he attended Ohio University and Marshall University, where he studied drafting and art.

On June 19, 1965, he married Beverly Ann Bolling, who survives. He is also survived by his son, James Bolling Walker (Carol), of Gallipolis and daughter, Elizabeth Walker-Knauer (Doug) of Put-in Bay, Ohio, along with four grandchildren: James Devin Walker, Alexandra Elizabeth Knauer, James Grant Walker, and Andrew Frederick Walker. Also surviving is a close cousin, Nancy Howell-Koehler (Karl) of Yellow Springs and Cincinnati, Ohio.

Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, were his beloved grandmother, Cabelle Walker; his uncles, Judge John Wood Howell and William Harry Howell, and his beloved aunt, Geneva Howell, all of Gallipolis.

From 1959 until 1962, he served in the U.S. Marine Corp, stationed at Quantico, Virginia, where he held a high security position, involved in drafting the plans for the Bay of Pigs Invasion. While at Quantico, he was a decorated Expert Rifle & Pistol Marksman. During most of his career, he was in car sales, retiring from Gene Johnson Chevrolet in 2002. Before that, he was a draftsman for the Gallia County Engineer's Office. He was a life member of the Gallipolis Elks Lodge #107, and National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors. He was an avid collector, hunter, and fisherman.

The family will receive friends Friday, March 12, from 6:00-8:00 PM at the McCoy-Moore Funeral Home, Wetherholt Chapel in Gallipolis. An Elks service will be conducted by the Gallipolis Elks Lodge #107 at 8:00 PM in the funeral home. In accordance with his wishes he will be cremated and his ashes scattered over the land he occupied and loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jim and his artistic talent, the importance he placed on arts education and his passion for his grandchildren, who also loved art, may be made to:
French Art Colony
Children's Art Program
530 First Avenue
Gallipolis, Ohio 45631

Condolences may be sent to www.mccoymoore.com