Obituary of Raymond J. Walker

Raymond J. Walker, a resident of the Town of Wappinger, entered into rest Thursday, November 13, 2014 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie. He was 83. Son of the late Thomas and Carrie Crawford Walker, he was born on May 28, 1931 in Opelika, Alabama. He married the former Lucille Walters in New York City in 1956. Mrs. Walker preceded him in death, passing on October 21, 2009. Raymond served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged. He worked as a manager at West Point and as a respiratory therapist at St. Luke's Hospital in Newburgh, until his retirement. Raymond succeeded in graduating from Dutchess Community College while working two jobs and raising a family; his priority in life was always his family. A member of Bethel Missional Baptist Church in Wappingers Falls, Raymond always had a strong faith in God. He not only believed in the Word of God, but he lived his life by setting an example for his friends, family and co-workers. Survivors include his children, Raymond Walker, Jr. and his wife, Wanda of Massachusetts, Leroy Walker of Wappingers Falls, Lucille Stevens of Newburgh, Richard Walker and his wife, Jocelyn of Silver Spring, Maryland, William Walker and his wife, Alicia of Poughkeepsie, Sandy Walker and his wife, Lisa of Annapolis, Maryland and Irving Walker of Maryland; his brother, Harvey Walker; his sisters, Dovetta Norman, Dorothy Warner, Ivera Chavez and Mary Thomas; fourteen grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Lucille, he was predeceased by his brothers, Thomas and Jose, and his granddaughter, Shanna Walker. Family will receive their friends on Monday, November 17, 2014 from 10 to 12 noon at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, 2607 South Avenue in Wappingers Falls. A Funeral Service will be held at 12 noon on Monday at the church, following visitation; the Rev. Dr. Edward L. Hunt will officiate. Entombment will take place in Poughkeepsie Rural Community Mausoleum, South Avenue in Poughkeepsie. Memorial donations may be made in Raymond's name to Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, 2607 South Avenue, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590. For directions or to send a personal condolence, please visit our website at www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.