James "Keithy" K. Walker

IN, to James and Dinah Walker. As the oldest of three children,

we called him Keithy. He moved through life in his own way—

sometimes reserved, yet with laughter and humor that were

memorable.

Keithy was raised in the church and baptized at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church by Dr. Stacy R. Shields, Senior Pastor. Growing up, Pilgrim was a meaningful part of his life. He sang in the “Mighty Mites” children’s choir, participated in plays and was actively involved in the youth ministry. Those years at Pilgrim were unforgettable, forming strong bonds, lasting friendships and some of the most special memories of his upbringing.

Keithy’s school years reflected an outgoing side of him. He attended IPS School #53 and Craig Middle School, where he quickly made friends and was well liked. A graduate of Lawrence North High School ’86, he proudly wore #32 on the gridiron as a running back and competed in wrestling.

Culinary arts became Keithy’s true passion. What began as an early love for cooking developed into a lifelong profession. In 1989, he graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, one of the nation’s premier culinary schools, an accomplishment that marked him as one of the first in his family to attend college.

He dedicated his career to the craft of cooking and hospitality,

with a particular love for catering. Over the years, he served

in roles as a sous chef and executive chef at Crystal Catering,

Indianapolis Athletic Club, Wyndham Indianapolis West Hotel,

Community Heart and Vascular Hospital, Conrad Hotels &

Resorts and with Centerplate Catering, serving events at the

Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. He also

co-managed the food truck, Chive Turkey, bringing his creativity

and culinary skills to the streets. Family and friends especially

enjoyed the meals he prepared—and everyone knew the food

was good when Keithy was in the kitchen.

From Pop Warner to the pros, Keithy loved football, especially the Indianapolis Colts. Some of his fondest memories were the Thanksgiving Day street football games played with cousins, where the rivalry was real and the competitive spirit was serious.

Keithy was unmistakably himself. Though life shaped him in many ways, he maintained a special closeness with cousins and longtime friends.

On Monday morning, February 9, 2026, Keithy passed away at IU Health West Hospital in Avon, Indiana. He was 57 years old. Having faced a previous stroke and subsequent heart issues, he carried more than many knew. His passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him.

Those who will forever hold Keithy in their hearts include: his parents, James and Dinah Walker; his sons, Keith (Andreshia) Anderson and Chris Anderson; six grandchildren, Chan, Kennedy, Ashad, Ausar, Aasim and Aiyla; his siblings, Yolanda (Ray) Schufford, Texas and JurJuan (Tamara) Walker, Florida; his paternal grandmother, Rosetta Walker; great aunt, Lenora Johnson; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

A visitation will be held at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1060 W. 30th St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, on February 19, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the same location, beginning at 12:00 pm.