Obituary

James Walker, Jr. of Chicago, Illinois passed away on February 9, 2025.

James was born in Aliquippa, PA. on July 28, 1947, to the late James Walker, Sr. and Racheal Walker.

James is survived by his devoted wife Hattie Walker.  Three children, James Walker, III (Beth) of Kernersville, NC. Anika Nathan (Anthony) of Newberry, FL.  and Sean Walker (Tshegofatso – TK) of Johannesburg, SA. Stepson Gregory Bell (Latoya) of Chesapeake, VA. Stepdaughter LaTonya Flores (Jessie) of Waukegan, IL.  Sister Marlene Brown of Carrollton, TX.  Nieces Tammora Thomas of Carrollton, TX. and Lisa Vernon of Dallas, TX.  Five grandchildren Nyla Wooten, Kalani Nathan, Braylon Walker, A. Khumo Walker, and Adriel Walker. James was preceded in death by his sister Shirley Henderson of Fairfax, VA.

As a youth, James was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Aliquippa, PA., where the late Rev. Keaton baptized him.

James graduated from Aliquippa High School in 1965 and obtained college degrees from the University of Akron (B.A.), Ohio University (M.Ed.), and Roosevelt University.

James' work experience began as a fifth-grade teacher and Jr. High School Dean in Waukegan; followed by Principal and Assistant Superintendent in North Chicago and Buffalo Grove, Illinois.

James was a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and was a founding member of the Graduate Chapter in Waukegan.  He served as President of both his college and graduate chapters.  He also served as Awards Chairman for the Midwestern region for 15 years in addition to servicing the National committee.

Upon retiring in 2003, James began working at Ravinia Music Festival, Northwestern University Sports department, and Chicago Symphony Center.  James loved music and sports and worked in those facilities until his health began to decline in late 2024.

During his post-retirement years, James worked throughout Chicago as a photojournalist for JazzChicgo.net; in addition to co-hosting a smooth jazz radio show with WNUA in Chicago.  James had a passion for travelling and cruising with his lovely wife, Hattie.

He was also an avid sports fan and loved his Dodgers, Bulls, Pittsburg Steelers, and Aliquippa Quips.

Visitation will be held at Bradshaw & Range Funeral Home located at 2513 W. Dugdale Rd. Waukegan, IL. 60085 on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, from 1pm to 3pm.

Final Celebration of Life will be held at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church located at 410 Wykes St. Aliquippa, PA. on Saturday, February 22, 2025.  Wake will be held at 10am to 11am preceding the funeral at 11am. Interment to be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Aliquippa, PA.

Repass will be held at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church located at 410 Wykes St. Aliquippa, PA.

In lieu of flower, please send donations to Alpha Phi Alpha Education Fund in James' memory.