Leslie Lee Walker, Sr.

On the morning of April 27, 2016, God ended a 6 year struggle with Alzheimer’s disease for Leslie Lee Walker, Sr. He was 83. The Walker family lost a loving father and devoted husband. Our community lost a tireless volunteer and respected elder. Our country lost an unwavering patriot and an outstanding professional whose contributions will only be completely known by future generations.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 63 years, Sara Jane. His children include Leslie Jr and wife Mary, Lynda and husband Chriss Knisley, and Roger and wife Nancy. There are 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Walker was born January 8, 1933 in Columbia, Tennessee, the third child of John and Isabelle Walker. As a youth, he became an Eagle Scout, a rank achieved at that time by only 1% of Boy Scouts. He graduated in the Columbia Central High School Class of 1951, and in July of 1952, he began his military career in the US Army Security Agency. Serving as a cryptologist, he worked at stations in the US, Austria, and Turkey, rising to the rank of Staff Sargent.

After nearly 12 years of military service, Mr. Walker entered civilian life as an employee of the National Security Agency. He continued developing his interest in electronics and, despite not having an engineering degree, was named an Engineering Specialist and attained a GS-15 rating. Throughout his career, he received commendations and letters of appreciation from other security agencies as a result of his work. He earned several awards, including the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal. He retired in 1992 with a total of 40 years of service to the United States.

Always an active participant in the Laurel community, Mr. Walker was a part of several organizations during his life. As Secretary of the Laurel Jaycees he helped raise funds to buy equipment for the Laurel Volunteer Rescue Squad. He worked as police photographer for the Laurel Police Department, eventually becoming a part time patrol officer. Starting as a pilot in the Air Wing, he joined the Laurel Volunteer Rescue Squad. When the Air Wing was disbanded, he earned his Emergency Medical Technician – Ambulance Certification and provided first aid in the Squad ambulances, eventually moving to the heavy rescue truck as driver. After retirement from government service, he was very active in The Tabernacle Church. He served as a Deacon, was on the Board of Trustees, and for several years was responsible for maintenance of the building.

It has been said that dogs can tell a man’s true nature. Mr. Walker would certainly have their endorsement. Beginning with his childhood pet, Mister, he was rarely without a canine companion. More than once he brought home strays to stay as the family pet. Some were given solemn rites and interred in the back yard out of respect for their part in his life.

Mr. Walker valued everyone’s contribution and was respected for his willingness to share his expertise and experience. He was also known for his sense of humor. Even in the later stages of Alzheimer’s, as his other faculties were taken from him, he would use funny faces and short phrases to help both his family and caregivers feel comfortable as they all dealt with the difficulties inflicted on him by the disease.

A Celebration of Life for Mr. Walker is planned for Friday, May 6th, beginning at 7:00 PM, at The Tabernacle Church in Laurel, followed by fellowship and light refreshments. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Les Walker Tribute Fund through the Alzheimer’s Association at the following link:http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Events/Tributes-AlzheimersChampions?pxfid=333723&fr_id=1060&pg=fund

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