Mr. James David "Buddy" Walker

Mr. James David "Buddy" Walker, 78, of Thomaston, died Tuesday, February 2, 2021, at his residence. Graveside funeral services for Mr. Walker will be held Saturday, February 6, at 2:00 PM, in Upson Memorial Gardens. Rev. Dean Hemphill and Mr. James George will officiate. The family will receive friends Saturday from 12:00 PM until 1:30 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. The family requests that those attending wear masks and observe social distancing. Mr. Walker was born in Thomaston on October 8, 1942, to the late James Daniel Walker and the late Sara Frances Strickland Walker. He enlisted in the US Navy in January, 1961, and served during the Vietnam War as a chief boiler technician. He retired as a Chief Petty Officer in November, 1980, and worked locally as a mechanic. Mr. Walker was a long-time member of Emory's Chapel Baptist Church and later joined Pritchett Memorial Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, Mr. Walker was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria A. Walker, and his daughter, Kathy A. Williams. He is survived by two sons: James A. Walker of Thomaston, and Thomas Patrick Walker of Dallas, TX; a sister: JoAnn George of Thomaston; a brother Johnny (Gail) Walker of Lizella, GA; five grandchildren: Shawn (Angie) Walker, Christopher (Brandy) Walker; Daniel (Christy) Williams, Donald "Moose" (Sherri) Williams, and Stephanie (John) Cochran; sixteen great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and his dog, Tootsie. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Gideons International, PO Box 1034, Thomaston, GA 30286. Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.