Rutherford Earl Walker

Earl was born and raised in a small town called Barney Georgia. In 1950 he joined the Air Force and served our country faithfully for 4 years. His service time placed him on the ground during the Korean War. Later, stationed in SC, he met and married the love of his life Helen in 1953. These precious two would enjoy a life of 52 years together before his wife was called home in 2005. They were blessed with 5 children: David, Richard, Tammy, Rene and Carla. He experienced what no father should ever have to endure, the loss of two of his children: Richard in 1979 and Tammy in 2017. These losses forever shaped the way he outwardly expressed his love and affection toward his family. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy of 3 children, 2 sons-in-law, 1 daughter-in-law, 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren. This Christmas the family gathered around his hospital bed for a picture that included the rare gift of 5 generations in one photo. He worked numerous jobs in his lifetime (even owning a wig shop at one time). He retired from GE and was one of the first to work on MRI machines when they were first unveiled. Earl loved Cars, football and dove hunting which he did with his son from a very early age. But his life, especially after the death of his wife, was consumed with loving his family. As his body began to decline; his life motto was “one day at a time” And he said that to everyone and lived it daily as well. He loved to talk about finances and current events. He shared his wisdom with all who would listen. During his final months, his body might have been failing him, but he was still very present mentally. His eyes would light up at the sound of his family in the room or on the phone. He loved good food and enjoyed his desserts even more! His last months were not easy but with the help of family and Mcleod Hospice; He was able to make the most of each and every day. Our family extends our deepest gratitude and appreciation for Victoria, his precious hospice nurse for 7 months, and all that came alongside our family to help with his care. Our family may be grieving, but we do not grieve as those who have no hope. Our loss means that Earl’s suffering journey is over and He is not only healed and in the arms of His Savior, but also with His wife and two children who went ahead of him. He waited 47 long years to hold his son Richard again. No, he would not want to return here, but we believe he will happily be part of the welcoming party as each of his family members make their own journey towards heaven, never to be separated again. Meanwhile we cling to this promise of Jesus “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4

In lieu of flowers donations in Earl’s honor can be made to one of two organizations that were meaningful to him.

The American legion ( mylegion.org) or Disabled American Vets ( dav.org)

A grave side memorial service with an honor guard ceremony will be held Monday January 19th at 2:00pm. Location: Florence Memorial Gardens 3320 S Cashua Drive Florence, SC 29501