James Brent Walker

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Walker, a beloved husband to Mary Jane, father to Darrick, Brandon and Heidi. James also had five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He left us peacefully surrounded by loved ones on July 16th.

James Walker, born on March 3, 1943, in Fresno, California. The entrepreneur son of Lonnie and Jane Walker who started his career as a Fresno City College kid, who began his career working on cars, welding, playing pool and starting a dry-cleaning business in the summer heat of Fresno in the late 1960's. A proud member of the Fresno High School Class of 1961, James was a man who embraced the joy of starting with a little, blessing people around him and asking for nothing in return.

With a passion for playing billiards, he built “The Rack,” a beloved Fresno area pool hall in 1971, that is still open today. He parlayed this business by meeting another local farmer in the late 1970's and going into business with him to grow cotton and cantaloupes in Five Points, California.

In the early 1990s, James made his mark as a pioneer in California agriculture by planting some of the first almond trees in the region. His commitment to farming in the Central Valley since 1977 was a testament to his hardworking spirit. Known affectionately as a “Coyote,” he faced challenges head-on, thriving through resilience and determination and always finding a way to survive through recessions, bad commodity prices and people going broke all around him during tough times for California agriculture. He was a loyal employer to many in the central valley with some employees working for him for over 35 years.

James found joy in the great outdoors, whether it was water skiing, snow skiing locally at Heavenly Valley In Tahoe with his good friend David Britz and with his son Darrick. Jim loved to fish for Striped bass or Sturgeon in the Delta and especially ocean fishing during the salmon or albacore run from his home in Morro Bay, often times 40-50 miles off shore in 12 foot seas saying, "we have not hit our limit yet so keep fishing." The fishing stories (most of them true) spoke of the happiness he found in those moments, where the adventure and uncertainty were front and center.

The love of his life, Mary Jane Montgomery, stood by his side over these last 10 years. Together, they shared a bond that grew deeper with each passing year. In his later years, inspired by travels around the world, James found profound happiness in exploring new horizons and cultures with Mary Jane. Many people would comment that they have never seen Jim so happy.

James Walker leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the joy he brought to the lives he touched. As we celebrate his life, let us carry forward his spirit of kindness, adventure, and unwavering dedication to family and friends.

Rest in peace, James we will keep your memory going forever.