Joseph Walker

Joseph Walker, of Beaumont, departed this life on May 5, 2020. He was born on January 20, 1933, Sunset, Louisiana. 

There was never a dull moment when Papa was present. His humor was quick and magical – subtle as well as outward. Always wearing a seemingly permanent smile – even when asleep. People say, “his mom must have been a very happy person to have born such a beaming individual.” He cheered everyone around him – neighbors, co-workers/all of those he associated with. And oh! The good times he provided us at school rodeos, school/church festivals, games, etc. He seemed to never tire. Leading fundraising campaigns for our church, schools, rectory, activities building, he always influenced others to follow his lead. Papa’s gardens will be missed by many, in the neighborhood and especially senior citizen’s near and beyond. Loved by all, this contagion provided love for all he interacted with. Most people viewed him as a loving model for future generations to come; many had goals of imitating his drive/life. Because we have faith, we trust in God that his earthly mission has been complete towards his journey to salvation. Thank you, Jesus. While he suffered life threatening medical scares from 1987 until his death, he did not want to die- and, everyone knew this. It was not until quite recently that he “turned hermit”. To live “in fear” for so many years, we know that he is Heaven-bound. 

He was a good husband and father. I think most of all he showed us that marriage was not a burden as many would believe, but it was a badge to be worn with honor through the grace of God. He will never fade from our memories. We are now tasked to follow his example. 

Survivors include his spouse of sixty-five years, Elsie; son Ronald and his wife, Alice Catherine; grandchildren, Talton; Clairissa; and Ronald, Jr. (Cassidy); great-grandchildren, Ryland Joseph and Natalie Elizabeth; Godchildren, Nicole Garcia and her husband, Mario; Chris Bijou and his wife, Regina; sister, Ann and her husband, James; brother, Frank; best friends, Charles and Hilda Duplecian, and numerous nieces and nephews, relatives, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his son, Merlyn Joseph; parents, Merlyn and Mary Walker; brothers, Clarence, Rodney, and Joseph; and sisters, Selina, Mary Lee, and Georgia. 

A gathering of Mr. Walker’s family and friends will begin at 9:00 a.m., with his funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 9, 2020, at Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont, with Reverend Antony Paulose, C.M.I. presiding. Interment will follow at Community Cemetery, Beaumont. Please observe social distancing guidelines.