He graduated from Central High School in 1954. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War and was stationed in the Panama Canal Zone. He attended Hinds Community College.
He would then spent time with Vickers Inc. as a machinist for 11 years. In 1971, he started his own business as a contractor. He loved to hunt, fish, and being outdoors with friends.
He married Gail Marlene Howard, and they were blessed with 69 years.
Walter is survived by his wife, Gail Marlene Bankston; his son, Ted Bankston; his daughters, Penny Bankston and Sheri Lynne Bankston; his granddaughter, Courtney Marie Smith of Richmond, Virginia; his sister, Mae Pait of Lucedale, Mississippi; his great grandson, Caiden and Jeremiah. A special thank you to our loving family friend Lee Ann Barrett for her loving care.
Visitation will be held at Lakewood Funeral Home, 6011 Clinton Blvd, on September 30, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will follow at Lakewood Funeral Home on September 30, 2026, beginning at 3:00 pm. A Committal Service will take place at Lakewood Memorial Park.
