Aubrey Douglas Walker

Aubrey “Doug” Walker, the world’s best husband, father, papa, brother, and friend, was reunited in heaven with the love of his life, Betty Walker, on Sunday, October 12, 2025. At the milestone age of 90, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his grandchildren at Lexington Medical Center. He cherished Betty beyond measure, and his family finds comfort in knowing he was rejoicing in that long-awaited reunion, embraced once more in the presence of their Savior.

Born on October 7, 1935, in Columbia, South Carolina, Doug lived a life marked by unwavering faith, fierce loyalty, and selfless love. He was a proud graduate of Olympia High School, where he was a basketball and baseball star. Doug went on to serve his country with honor and pride through a distinguished career with the South Carolina Army National Guard. He embodied the values of duty, service, and integrity, and proudly dedicated decades of his life to serving and protecting.

To his family, Doug was more than a protector—he was a teacher, a nurturer, and the steady foundation upon which the family was built. He believed deeply in the power of education and following dreams, and made it his mission to encourage and support his daughter and grandchildren in their pursuits, always emphasizing the importance of learning, growth, and building strong character.

A faithful servant of Christ, Doug led by quiet example. His life was a testimony of strength, humility, and grace. He was a dedicated member of Southside Baptist Church (Radius Church), and remained active in the church community he loved so dearly as long as he could. His faith wasn’t just something he practiced on Sundays—it was evident in every act of kindness, every selfless gesture, and every prayer spoken over his family.

He lived his life with one constant purpose: to make sure those around him always knew they were deeply and unconditionally loved. He never missed an opportunity to say “I love you,” even in his final days. He expressed his love not only with words, but in everyday actions, always showing up for his family, friends, and even strangers.

Doug leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Aubrey and Mildred Walker; his beloved wife, Betty Walker; and his grandparents. He is survived by his daughter, Shawn Walker; his grandchildren, Raven Thomas, Blake Smith, and Ethan Smith; his siblings, Charles Walker and Ina Ray Walker; and many others who all carry a piece of Doug’s gentle strength and faithful heart.

The family finds peace in knowing that Doug is now rejoicing and dancing hand in hand again with Betty, cured of all ailments and pain, and is experiencing eternal joy and rest, in the presence of their Savior.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday, October 20, 2025 at Radius Church, Southside, 703 Whaley Street, Columbia. The family will greet friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at 1:00 p.m. in Fort Jackson National Cemetery. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made online in honor of Aubrey Doug Walker to: The Dementia Society of America at www.DementiaSociety.org/donate.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.