James William Walker, age 95 of Springfield, Missouri, passed away Friday, January 28, 2022, in Fremont Senior Living. He was born in Oldfield, Missouri March 18, 1926. He and his younger sister, Marie, were the children of Basil and Eula Mills Walker, and they lived on a farm near Lindenlure. When James was 11 years old, they moved to Bradleyville, where he graduated from high school. He was proud when he heard someone say, “that is Basil’s boy.” His dad knew he was “a nut about flying” and gave him pilot lessons. After 10 lessons, he flew solo in Springfield, Missouri from an airport on Division Street. James enlisted for WWII while in high school and the military deferred his active status until he graduated. He served active-duty Army Air Corps as a Corporal for 18 months until WWII concluded and then he served in the Air Force Reserve until 1952. James then attended the University of Missouri in Columbia using the G.I. Bill. He earned his bachelor’s degree in forestry. While working for Michael Baker engineering in Pennsylvania, he met and married Hilda Haire. They raised three daughters in St. Louis, in a home they lived in for over 60 years. James opened a very successful business in aerial photogrammetry, where he again used his skills as a pilot and businessman. James enjoyed his lifelong love of hunting and fishing with many trips to Canada and Alaska. His favorite hunting trip was for a bighorn Dall sheep. He was a sharply intelligent man who was devoted to his wife and family. He was a leader, anticipatory thinker, an avid reader, and outdoorsman.
James is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Hilda; three daughters Pamela Hazell and husband Alva, Rebecca Knight and husband Lester, Stephanie Low and husband Ken; eight grandchildren, Morgan, Rachael, Jessie, Chase, James, Amelia, Derek, and Spencer, along with eight great-grandchildren. He was thoroughly and deeply loved by his family.
Funeral services for James will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, February 5, 2022, in Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark, Missouri. Burial will follow in Sparta Cemetery. Visitation will be 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. prior to the funeral. Online condolences may be shared at www.barnesfamilyfunerals.com.
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Glen and Kay Jones says
February 2, 2022 at 10:20 pmI have been blessed with a number of good uncles, but Uncle Jim was my favorite. I grew up loving and admiring him. Much of who I am educationally and professionally was directly influenced by him. He is at the top of the list of those who I love, respect and honor. I pray for comfort and peace for Aunt Bunny, the Girls and family. We love you.
Ronald Powell says
February 3, 2022 at 8:02 amSorry to hear of Jim’s passing. We have fond memories of traveling with your parents to Norway. Give your Mother a hug for us. Ron & Jan
Bernita & Vaughn Jones says
February 4, 2022 at 9:46 pmI remember hearing my mom say numerous times that Uncle Jim was the best brother she could have. I know that I will miss his calm nature, selflessness and his keen interest in what was going in our lives.
Aunt Bunny, Pam, Becky, and Steph,
He was the Best of the Best! We love you all and you and your families are in our hearts and prayers. ❤
Bernita & family