Basil W. Walker

Basil was born on February 17, 1939, in North Wilkesboro, NC to Elisha Winfred Walker and Grace Curtis Walker.

Basil is survived by his loving wife, Gail Walker, son Jeff Walker and daughter-in-law Janna of Mabank, TX, stepson Phillip Davis of Goochland, VA; grandchildren Evan Green and wife Chelsea, Halle Walker, Savana Peña and husband Nate, Mitchell Davis and Kate Davis, and great-grandson Cru Green and great-granddaughter Bennett Lou Peña, sisters-in-law, JoAnn Walker, Maxine Curtis, Lou Curtis, Jill Whitley and husband Chris as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Basil was preceded in death by his former wife, Bettie Ingo Walker, his son Michael Walker, three sisters, Frances Gay, Grace Vaught and Helen Ferguson, and four brothers, Junior Curtis, Bobby Walker, Eddie Curtis and George Curtis.

Basil began his 44 Year career with Lowe’s Home Improvement on the loading dock of their first store in North Wilkesboro, NC in 1958. He continued advancing with Lowe’s moving numerous times throughout the east and northeast. Hard work, long hours and dedication to Lowe’s and his employees resulted in Basil’s promotion to Regional Vice President. Basil was very proud of his son Jeff who followed in his footsteps at Lowe’s with his own career in the Midwest of over 36 years and has received several of the same awards as his dad. Basil decided to retire in 2002 saying proudly “It’s time to stop work and spend time with the grandchildren”.

Upon retirement, Basil and Gail embraced the next chapter of life and moved to Hilton Head Island, SC where they spent 25 years. Retirement meant having more time with their family, especially watching the grandchildren grow from babies to successful young adults. Basil was an avid golfer and a talented wood craftsman. Basil and Gail joined the Baptist church where Basil was Baptized. They traveled the world visiting many countries and making beautiful memories. Basil was deeply devoted to Gail, his family and friends. He was known for his fun-loving spirit, kind nature and true gentleman’s character. His steady guidance and kind spirit left a lasting impression on colleagues, friends and family alike. He was always willing to share his wisdom, his stories and encourage others to grow whether at a family gathering, in the business world or on the golf course. Whether you called him Sugar, Dad, Pepa, Uncle, Friend or Mentor, you knew his heart was genuine. His infectious smile, love and legacy will forever remain in our hearts. He is not gone - he has simply gone to heaven before us.

The first Celebration of Life will be held at Teague Funeral Service, 2260 Ivy Road, Charlottesville, VA on Saturday January 31st, 2026, Visitation starting at 12:00 PM, Service at 1:00 PM, reception for family and friends following the service at Boar’s Head Resort, 200 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, VA.

The second Celebration of Life will be held at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 260 NC-16, Wilkesboro, NC on Tuesday February 3rd, 2026, Visitation starting at 12:00 PM, Service at 1:00 PM, burial immediately following service and a reception after for family and friends following in the church social hall.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Our Lady of Peace in Charlottesville, VA for their compassion and care during Basil’s journey with dementia.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to The Central and Western Virginia Chapter of Alzheimer’s Association at 1010 Ednam Center, Suite 203, Charlottesville, VA 22903 or a charity of your choice.