Gerald Walker

Gerald A. Walker, 82, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 18, 2025. Born on June 4, 1943, in Champlain, Illinois, to Russell L. and Reba Faye Davis Walker. Gerald's journey through life was marked by devotion-to his family, his community, his passions, and his values.

Gerald moved to Tahlequah as a young boy, where he would plant deep roots and grow into a man admired for his warmth, integrity, and unshakable work ethic. He graduated from Tahlequah High School and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Northeastern State University. It was there that he met the love of his life, Avo-his wife and companion of 60 years. The two were married on December 26, 1965, at Enterprise Baptist Church in Enterprise, Oklahoma.

Gerald and Avo began their life together in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, where Gerald worked as an accountant for Phillips Petroleum. Later, they returned to Tahlequah, where Gerald managed the body shop at the local Chevrolet dealership and eventually became a respected deputy sheriff for the Cherokee County Sheriff's Department, serving for over 20 years. His dedication to public service was unwavering, and he carried out his duties with compassion, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility to the community he loved.

A man of many talents and hobbies, Gerald had a lifelong passion for restoring classic cars. Whether under the hood or behind the wheel, he found joy in reviving vintage automobiles and sharing that joy with others. He was an active member and former president of the 5 Cs Car Club and often hosted local car shows. His love for dogs was well known-he often joked that he preferred them to people-and his gentle, patient spirit made him a favorite among four-legged friends.

Music was another constant in Gerald's life. With a personal collection of records that spanned genres and decades, he cherished the sound of good music and could play the saxophone and clarinet.

Gerald was a proud member of the Kiwanis Club in Bartlesville and contributed in countless ways to the betterment of his community.

He is survived by his son, Everett Walker of Newark, New York; grandchildren Brian Dejonge, Kaylie McKendrick, and Brady Allen Walker, all of Newark,New York; Earl Bell and wife Sarah of Texas; Daniel Bell and wife Kala of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; great-grandchildren Aiden Bell, Zane Bell, and Luca Bell all of Texas, as well as Walker Bell, McKinslee Bell, and Dean Bell of Oklahoma. Gerald is also remembered fondly by his dear friend Thomas Sanco, and by many others whose lives he touched.

He is proceeded in death by his parents,Russell and Reba Walker, his wife, Avo E. Walker, and his son, Allen W. Walker.

Gerald leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and craftsmanship. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on in every restored engine, every good song played, and every memory shared by those who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be Thursday, July 24, 2025, 10:00 AM, in the Chapel of Hart Funeral Home, Interment will follow at Sallisaw Cemetery in Sallisaw, Oklahoma.