Roosevelt Walker, Sr.

Roosevelt Walker, Sr., affectionately called “Brother”, “Step”, and “Pops”, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on June 15, 2024 at the age of 88. Born on October 24, 1935, in Mayersville, Mississippi to James and Frances Walker of Greenville, Mississippi, Roosevelt lived a life filled with love, service, and dedication.

Roosevelt's life was a testament to God, family, and love. He is preceded in death by his sisters, Salome “Sister” Scott, Yvonne “Baby Ree” Benton, and Mattie “Baby Child” Cross, and his two sons-in-law, Sonny Kates and Vincent Solomon, Sr. Roosevelt was the cherished husband of LaVerne Walker (née Hobbs) for 69 remarkable years. Their love story began as high school sweethearts and blossomed into a life-long marriage. Together, they were blessed with six children: Roosevelt Walker, Jr., Jewell Solomon, Charlotte Kates, Gnaolia “Gayla” Walker, Sylvia Walker, and Carol Walker; and 7 grandchildren: Victoria Lott, Tiffany Walker, Daphne Walker, Dominique Weathersby, Antonio 'Tony' Walker, Adrien Thompson, and Hezekiah Walker. As well as 5 bonus grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His devotion to his family was unwavering, and his love for them was a beacon of light in their lives.

A profound dedication to service marked Roosevelt's life. He served his country with honor and distinction for 20 years in the U.S. Army, rising to Chief Warrant Officer (CW2). He served his country during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and the Cuban Missile Crisis. But not all his military life was war, this same career allowed him and his family to embark on a global journey, creating enduring memories and enriching experiences. This family, which grew from humble beginnings in a small town in Mississippi, was blessed to live in locales such as Paris, France & Landstuhl, Germany. After his honorable discharge, Roosevelt and his family settled in their forever home in Cinnaminson, New Jersey. After retirement from his military career, Roosevelt started his civilian career in the trucking industry at Mason-Dixon Lines as a Platform Supervisor and Dispatcher. He eventually retired from ABF Freight after 20 years of dedicated service. His commitment to his work and his colleagues was evident throughout his career.

A man of deep faith, Roosevelt was passionate about God and family. He rededicated his life to the Lord when he was 45. Among his church and community, he was an inspiration. As a respected leader and a dedicated member of Evergreen Baptist Church in Palmyra, NJ, he served others as the Chairman of the Deacon Board and taught Sunday School. He took immense pride in teaching the bible, spending days preparing his lessons. Although a man of few words, when he spoke, especially concerning The Word, he spoke with authority, and his words carried weight with all who heard him. He was also the family prayer warrior, praying enthusiastically and fervently at every family event. His impact on the community was profound, and his legacy of service continues to inspire others.

Roosevelt Walker, Sr. was a man of many talents and passions, which brought joy to his life and those around him. His artistic side shone through drawing and photography. His love for sports was evident in his years as a basketball player, where he showcased skill and sportsmanship, even securing a chance to be a Harlem Globetrotter. Golf was another passion, and he relished the challenges and rewards of the game, finding joy on the greens by outplaying the competition with a handicap of 3.

His fascination with cars was more than a hobby; it was a true passion. Whether admiring model Hess trucks or maintaining his vehicles, Roosevelt's enthusiasm for automobiles was well-known among his family and friends. He was also a lover of movies, with a particular fondness for sci-fi films that sparked his imagination and curiosity.

Roosevelt's love for Southern cuisine was another of his great joys. He savored farm-raised catfish, buffalo fish, and his favorite dessert, peach cobbler. Family traditions were important to him, and the Labor Day family cookout was an event he eagerly anticipated each year. He was a man of simple pleasure; things such as starting his day with a cup of coffee brought him a sense of comfort and routine. His lawn care was another source of joy, delighting in his meticulously manicured grass, fruit trees, and shrubs. In all these pursuits, Roosevelt's passions and talents reflected his zest for life and his ability to find happiness in both the extraordinary and the everyday.

Roosevelt Walker, Sr. leaves a legacy of love, service, and devotion. Those who knew and loved him will forever cherish his memory. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, and the many friends and family members whose lives he enriched