RALPH STANLEY WALKER

Ralph Stanley Walker, passed away peacefully at the age of 97 in Elizabethton, Tennessee, on April 15, 2023. He was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Norma Walker, on February 16, 2023.

Ralph was born in Guilford County on August 27, 1925 to the late William and Martha Walker. They lived on the family farm on what is now Horse Pen Creek Road. He was a graduate of Summerfield High School, and was drafted for service in the US Army during World War II. Serving as a Rifleman with the 45th Infantry Division, he was present and assisted in the liberation of Dachau Concentration Camp, in 1945.

After returning home, upon the completion of his military service, Ralph married his high school sweetheart, Naomi Carter. Their marriage spanned 27 years. There were two children, Sylvia Walker of Greensboro, and the late Phillip Walker of Holden Beach.

Professionally, Ralph worked for Gate City Roofing for 20 years, followed by his employment with Friendly Hills Apartments until his retirement at the age of 77.

Ralph married Norma Via Boone in 1980 and enjoyed a special relationship lasting 42 years. He was step-father to Diana Boone Biller (Travis) of Johnson City, Tennessee.

Ralph was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Summerfield for many decades where he sang in the Men's Chorus and Church Choir. He also served as a deacon.

An avid gardener, Ralph made daily visits to the Summerfield Feed Mill to converse with "the regulars" regarding world affairs, landscaping, and vegetables. An enthusiastic sports fan of the Atlanta Braves and Duke Basketball, he enjoyed many games in person and on TV with his daughter.

He was preceded in death by brothers Howard (Nettie) Walker, Harvey (Mary Frances) Walker, Clay (Blanche) Walker, and sisters Cassie (Ernest) Jessup, and Jeannie (Claude) Pegram.

In addition to his daughter and step-daughter, Ralph is survived by grandchildren, April (Denton) McGibbony, Scott (Tiffany) Clark, Joshua Walker, Carter Walker, Dr. Mackenzie Walker (Alex Moehring), Christina (Daniel) Farmer, and Ryan (Megan) Biller, three great-grand children; Dylan McGibbony, Elijah Clark, and Avery Clark.

A celebration of the lives of Ralph and Norma Walker will be held at First Baptist Church of Summerfield on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at 2:00 PM. Following the burial in the church cemetery, a reception will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to First Baptist Church of Summerfield, 2300 Scalesville Road, Summerfield, NC 27358.