Walter Mapson Jr.

Sunrise

Walter Mapson, born November 17, 1942, was the eldest of four children of Lee Walter Mapson, and Lucille Garner Mapson (his birth mother), but raised by his stepmother, Emzella Mapson.

Education

Walter was educated in Montgomery, Alabama's public schools. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree at Alabama State University.

Marriage

In 1984, Walter married Regenia Richardson, whom he affectionately called “ReRe.” Together they nurtured a blended family, and Walter’s legacy lives on through his beloved sons.

Career Highlights

Walter was drafted into the Marines as a combat soldier in Vietnam upon his graduation from Alabama State University. After he completed his military duty, he worked as a Police Officer in Washington, D.C., then became a Youth Counselor at Oak Hill Youth Detention Center. After retiring, he continued to pursue his dream of entrepreneurship and started two more businesses.

Character

Walter was recognized for his strong character and steadfast faith. He is particularly known for his calm and composed demeanor during challenging situations, consistently maintaining an optimistic perspective that difficulties are temporary and solvable. Walter dedicated considerable time to listening to others and providing support when circumstances were unfavorable. He was known for his encouragement and ability to identify positive outcomes, regardless of the situation. Many young people whom he has counseled have expressed their appreciation, thanking him for the positive influence on their lives.

Favorite Things

Walter was a homebody who loved family time and enjoyed gardening, landscaping, and repairing things around the house. He enjoyed movie nights, theater outings, relaxing in his library, and listening to his favorite artist, Anita Baker, as she sang “Caught Up In the Rapture of Love” while he sipped on Pepsi. Walter enjoyed sharing jokes, even if he was the only one who understood the punchline. There were very few things Walter did not like except “Social Media,” which he saw as an invasion of privacy.

Sunset (Until We Meet Again)

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Emzella Mapson; brother, Willie C. Mapson (Betty); and brother, Robert Mapson (Doris). He will be deeply missed by his devoted and loving wife, Regenia Mapson; his sons, Tony and Steffan Mapson; his brother, LC Mapson (Dee); his sister, Rev. Dr. Gwendolyn Boyd; his grandson, Anthony Mapson; a very special and devoted niece, Tammie Lewis; and a host of nieces, nephews, and close family friends.