James "Jim" Morton Walker

James (Jim) Morton Walker, age 91, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, at the Suncoast Hospice Care Center in Pinellas Park, Florida, surrounded by family and held in the loving arms of his wife, Nancy.

Jim was born on August 29, 1934, in Akron, Ohio, to Otto and Dorothy Pearl Walker. From an early age, he demonstrated determination and skill, competing in the 1947 American Soap Box Derby National Championship. He later graduated from Uniontown High School in Uniontown, Ohio, in 1952, where he was a talented athlete, proudly playing football and basketball.

After graduating from high school, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy and served honorably during the Korean War. During his service, he served aboard the USS Allen M. Sumner, the USS Everglades, and the USS Shenandoah.

He married Rose Marie Martin of Ellet, Ohio, on September 23, 1955, and together they raised four children.

Jim spent his career as an industrial pipefitter with the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, retiring in 1992 after 35 years of dedicated service.

A man of integrity, generosity, and skill, Jim was a 32nd Degree Mason and a proud member of Coventry–Akron Lodge No. 83, F. & A.M. He was deeply involved with the American Red Cross, serving as a member of the Disaster Action Team, Team 911, Chairman of the Community Outreach Committee, and leading the Pinellas Park High School Red Cross Club. Among his many honors, he was presented with the Clara Barton Award, the highest recognition bestowed upon a Red Cross volunteer. Additionally, he volunteered with Florida Blood Services.

Some of Jim’s greatest pleasures were single-handedly building his family’s first home, tending to his children’s horses on his farm in Rootstown, Ohio, taking flying lessons, and RVing for more than 30 years, traveling across the United States several times.

Jim was preceded in death by his first wife, Rose Marie Walker; his grandson, Troy Drusky; his brother, David Walker; and his parents.

He is survived by his children:

● Kim Marie Proctor of Williston, Florida

● James Walker of Dunwoody, Georgia

● Tina Niederhelm of New Haven, Missouri

● Terri Walker of St. Petersburg, Florida

He is also survived by his beloved wife of nearly 44 years, Nancy Fairchild Walker, his three remaining grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.

Jim will long be remembered for his service to others, his dedication to community, and the skilled hands and generous heart that were always ready to help. His loss will be deeply felt, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a donation to the Suncoast Hospice Foundation at 5771 Roosevelt Boulevard, Clearwater, FL 33760.