Mr. Harry “Jimmy” Walker Jr., passed away peacefully at his home on Chincoteague May 11, 2021, at the age of 82, surrounded by his family.
Jimmy Walker was born June 22, 1938, in Washington, D.C.; he was raised in Parksley, and considered Chincoteague his home. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in June 1956 to June 1962, where he was a sharp shooter. In conjunction, he enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard from April 1961 to April 1969. Following his military career, he was a law enforcement officer for the Town of Chincoteague, with his highest ranking being chief of police. Jimmy had the opportunity to change careers in 1986 and became employed with Accomack Social Services, serving as a fraud investigator then in the emergency department, until 2009, when he officially retired.
Between his charismatic and opinionated personality, he was sure to grab everyone’s attention and leave a lasting impression. He was highly respected in many areas in his life.
However, it is probably his musical abilities that he will be remembered for with his band, the Astrotones. He was known for his electric and acoustic guitar skills, along with the keyboard. Nicknamed “Kid,” he could dance circles around everyone. He was self taught and could learn any instrument he was given.
He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department. In law enforcement, he received many awards and accommodations for his extraordinary service to his community.
He leaves his loving family behind to cherish his memories, children: daughter, Robin Walker, son, Gregory “Scotty” Walker, and wife, Tabatha, son, William “Billy” Joseph Walker, and wife, Cindy; grandchildren: Justin Walker, Ashton Russell, Cody Walker, Jessica Walker Lewis and husband, Bryan, and Seth Walker; great-grandchildren: Colton Lewis, Allyson Lewis, Aaliyah Walker, and Max Walker; siblings: brother, Jackie Walker, and wife, Bonnie, brother, Robert Walker, and wife, Sandra. He was preceded in death by three sisters: Rosalie Barnes and husband, John, Barbara Marshall, and Mary Ann Rowley and husband, Vaughn; several nieces and nephews; and many beloved friends.
He was a courageous, simple man. Despite the inevitable, Jimmy came out a hero and stayed strong until the end. A family viewing will be held Friday, May 14, at 6 p.m., and the viewing will open up to the public between 7 and 9 p.m., at Salyer Funeral Home located on 6327 Church St., Chincoteague. Funeral services will begin Saturday, May 15, at 2 p.m., at the Union Baptist Church on Chincoteague. Following the service will be a graveside burial at Parksley Cemetery.
