Joseph D. Walker
Joseph D. Walker, a multifaceted individual whose talents spanned the realms of advertising, radio, and community theater, breathed his last on February 28, 2024 at Harbor Hospice, Beaumont, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Born in Freeport, Texas to Edna Faye Dycus Walker and Joseph Leon Walker, he followed his dream of acting when he graduated from Milby High School in Houston, Texas and won a TV Guide contest in 1955 to be cast in the TV series Dr. Hudson’s Secret Journal where he played the character young Tim Watson until the show ended in 1957. Later in 1957, he answered the call to serve his country and joined the Marine Corps, where he served with honor and distinction for 4 years. Semper Fi.
Following his honorable discharge, Joe embarked on a new chapter of his life, channeling his passion and talents into the realms of radio, television, and advertising. His charismatic presence, dynamic “radio voice”, and keen storytelling abilities made him a beloved figure in the media industry, where he left an indelible mark.
However, it was his rediscovered love for theater in community productions that truly ignited his spirit. Joe found great joy and comfort in the camaraderie of community theater, where he shared his talent and passion with fellow performers and audiences alike. His performances were marked by an undeniable charisma and depth, earning him admiration and applause.
“Maybe what we did today, we didn’t do alone. Maybe we did it with the help of the hill, the burn, and the mist. Maybe we asked the day to join us, and it joined us. Maybe we asked the night to join us, and it joined us. Maybe we asked life to join us, and it joined us. And the sky, and the clouds, and the sun, and the moon, and the stars.” – Tommy Albright, “Brigadoon”
In addition to his illustrious career and artistic endeavors, Joe’’s life was profoundly enriched by the love and companionship of his devoted wife of 55 years, Peggy. Their love was a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who knew them, a testament to the enduring power of true love. Though he may no longer be physically present, the bond they shared will live on in the hearts of those who were touched by their remarkable love story.
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4
Joe is survived by his wife Peggy Ruth Bellue Walker; children, Josh Houser and his wife Julie, Paige Nash and her husband, Jay; Julee LaMure and her husband, Jeff; Allison Stewart and her husband, Kade; and Meigan Walker-Hall and her husband, Matthew; goddaughter Shann Baggett and her husband Chris; grandchildren, Taylor Duncan and her husband, Bobby; AC Pippenger and his wife, Shelbie; Kelly Phillips, Max LaMure, Zoie LaMure, Oliver LaMure, Madeline Stewart, Amelia Stewart, Sydney Haselden, Mark “Trey” Haselden, Phoebe Hall, Drake Merrell, and Kaylee Hall; seven great-grandchildren, Jackson, Jane, Elizabeth, and Graham Duncan and Layton, Rawlee, Mercy Pippenger; and brother, Gordon Walker and his wife.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service for Mr. Walker will be held on April 27, 2024 at 2:00PM. His cremation arrangements were handled through Broussard’s Crematorium under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.
Video
Memorial Service
Broussard’s Mortuary Major Dr.
- 1605, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
- April 27, 2024
- 2:00 pm
I had just returned from serving as a Navy corpsman in Vietnam, and was searching for a radio job in San Diego, California. My Dad called and said a fellow named Joe Walker was looking for me to fill a radio job with the new station KYKR in Port Arthur. I drove back from California to take the job and worked with Joe 1969-72. For some time, Joe and I did the morning show together and it was a hoot! I have fond memories of Joe and the family.
I’m so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. I had the privilege of acting alongside him in Brigadoon at BCP. I’ll never forget how his Scottish accent sounded so natural and easy. He was so very talented and such a an inspiration to me and so many. He will be missed dearly. Praying for you all.
I am so very sorry for the loss of my friend Joseph Donald Walker. I hope his family will find comfort in the fact that he had a long wonderful life with many friends and family that he loved dearly. I first met Joe when we were both working at KTRK in Houston. I was in my last year at the University of Houston And he had just come back from his acting stent on Dr. Hudson’s secret journal. After I graduated in 1956 I didn’t see Joe for many years. I had to spend time in the army, I found out later that he spent four years in the Marines. when I finished my army tour I got my job at KFDM-TV, and later learned that Joe was also in Beaumont, and we resumed our friendship. He was a very good friend, with many talents. He had a golden Voice, and the acting talent to make you believe he was the character he was portraying. I will miss him, and never forget our many many years of friendship.
Being his friend for more than half a century was an honor. Joe was a one of a kind friend and an all around great guy. His last stage performance was in “Brigadoon” and he was marvelous as always. I feel so fortunate that we had one last reunion with Al and we shared some wonderful stories and laughed a lot. Joe’s memory is a blessing to many and a personal treasure to me. He was so proud of his family and you were good to him. Thank you for making his exit a graceful one. May the Lord bless you and keep you and make his face to shine upon you. You are in my prayers.
Peggy and family – Randy and I are so sorry to hear about Joe’s passing. Randy was a salesman for Joe back in ’77 at KFDM and I was Joe’s secretary. He was a great boss and good man. May your memories bring you peace and smiles.
So sorry to hear about Joe. Knew Joe from radio years in Houston and Dallas. He was best man at our wedding in Houston in 1961. Condolences to his family. Bob Brock
Peggy and Family: I only got to know Joe a bit about a year or so before we moved. He was a gem! He was smart and had a wonderful sense of humor, and he was an outstanding neighbor. I extend my sympathy to all of your family. May God bless you all.
Regret to learn of your loss of my friend, Joe, back in the days of Beaumont Jaycees…some 60 years ago…..recognized him immediately…still looked like the Joe of years gone by…regardless of age or condition of health, we are never ready to say BYE to those we love…my prayers are with you now as you walk this path of sadness…..
R. O. Williams, Jr. Austin,Texas