Johnny & Clara Walker

Johnny William Walker, 82, and Clara Ray Walker, 77, passed away Sunday, January 8, 2023 at their residence in Marion. They were married for 53 years.

Johnny was born February 25, 1940 in Polk County North Carolina to the late James Franklin Walker and Jessie Pearl McKinney Walker. Clara was born April 28, 1945 in Pickens County Georgia to the late William Grady Ray and Elsie Marie Padgett Ray.

Johnny served in the U.S. Army Reserves during the Vietnam Era. He was a supervisor in the textile industry before operating the Sugar Hill General Store for over 20 years. He enjoyed attending NASCAR races with his family. Clara worked for over 40 years as a school teacher. She taught in Georgia and South Carolina before ending her career at Nebo Elementary School. She loved going to the McDowell County Senior Center and playing mah jongg. They were founding members of the Ridgerunner Miata Club.

In addition to their parents, Johnny is preceded in death by brother, Donald Walker. Clara is preceded in death by sister, Bonnie Mulkey.

They are survived by their daughter, Keri Walker (Shannon DeHart). Johnny is also survived by three siblings, Art Walker (Barbara), Walter Walker (Lulu), and Rebecca Walker. Clara is survived by two siblings, Armenda Brooks (Jim) and Danny Ray (Mary).

The family will hold a visitation on Friday, January 13, 2023, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm, at Beam Funeral Service in Marion. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 15, 2023, at 2:00 pm, at Cagle Funeral Home in Jasper, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org/donate.