Thomas M. Walker, 70, of Sanford, Florida, passed away at home with family by his side on March 12, 2019. He is survived by his loving wife, Jo Alice Walker; mother, Mildred Bess; children Jennifer (Mark) Jones, Thomas Andrew Walker; Matthew (Carol) Walker, and Andrea Walker; brother Kerry Bess; grandchildren, Sarah, Vanna, Sadie, Bailey, and Bryce.
Tom was born in Alex City, Alabama on April 26, 1948 to Fred and Mildred Walker. When he was a small child, his family relocated to Indiana. He grew up in Lawrence, Indiana and graduated from Lawrence Central High School. After graduation, he spent two years at Indiana University.
It was during his time at I. U., that he met the love of his life, Jo Alice Whitehead. His keen sense of humor won her heart and they were married on July 6, 1968–he kept her heart for fifty years. After marriage, his following years were focused on building a life and a family of six. Shortly after graduating from Ivy Tech as a Journeyman Carpenter, he built a home in Lawrence. For the remainder of his life, he was a professional carpenter and wood worker.
Building the kingdom of God was also a priority. In 1980 he moved to Central Florida where he assisted his brother-in-law Gary Hudoff with a home missions church. His entire life was devoted to ministry. In recent years he served as a key member of the POA Deaf Ministry, bringing people to church, and showing compassion by helping those in need. In addition to his devotion to ministry, he was a natural comedian, and loved to make people laugh. Even in his final days fighting leukemia, his joy was making everyone around him happy.
As someone once said, “Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around he leaves an awful hole doesn’t he.” (It’s a Wonderful Life)
Tom Walker will be remembered and greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Home International Orphanage (Guatemala) can be donated in honor of Thomas Walker. Please make checks payable to the POA and your love gift will be expedited.