Columbus, NC - William "Bill" A. Walker, 86, died Wednesday, July 29, 2015 at the Elizabeth House, Flat Rock, NC after an extended illness with diabetes and Parkinson's disease. Bill was the son of the late William R. and Bessie Arledge Walker. Aside from his parents Bill was predeceased by four older brothers and one sister; Hugh, Robert, John and Jet Walker and Edith McFarland. Bill was born December 21, 1928 in Lumpkin, GA. He attended Lumpkin High School, Gordan Military Academy and the University of Georgia where he received a Master's degree in History. It was at the University he met his future wife, Jacqueline Garrison. They were married June 30, 1951.Lt. Col. Walker entered the Army in January 1951 and was retired January 24, 1974. He served one tour of duty in Korea and two tours of duty in Vietnam. He enjoyed being in the Army and felt it was an honor to serve his country. He was a highly decorated Master Army Aviator who flew both helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. His awards included the Army Air Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross and Legion of Merit.After retirement from the Army, Bill worked several years as a realtor with Butler Realty in Tryon, NC and as an appraiser with Bryson Associates in Hendersonville, NC.Bill was a deeply spiritual man who enjoyed traveling and time with his friends. He thought the mountains of North Carolina were "the greatest place on earth" to live.He is survived by his wife "Jackie", and his four children: Linda W. Kavale, Dianne W. Speese (Don), Carol W. Leighton (John) and William G. Walker (Amber), six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday August 1, 2015 at the McFarland Funeral Chapel with Reverend Bob Williard officiating. In lieu of flowers Memorials may be made to the Four Seasons Hospice, 581 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.
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