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~Garland Walker~
HOUSTON: Garland Harold Walker went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at 8:30 p.m. on December 24, 2024. He was 97 years old. Garland was born on February 10, 1927, in Quanah, Texas to Hyram Judson and Eva Lena Walker. He had six siblings—two sisters and four brothers. In Quanah, as the third boy in the family, Garland was affectionately known as “3.” Garland served proudly in both the U.S. Navy and Airforce. After his military service, he spent the next fifteen years as a shot hole driller on a seismic rig, sold drill bits on the side, and even then, was constantly experimenting in his garage with ideas that could be developed and marketed to the oil field. In 1960, with only twelve dollars in his pocket, he moved to Brisbane, Australia where he initially worked as a driller, before starting a small seismic supply business. Soon thereafter, he brought his family over, and in the following years, the company expanded with offices and sales nationwide. He distinguished himself as an entrepreneur in the oil industry. He also started a small congregation while in Australia, and, along with other men, taught Bible classes and preached. He loved reading and discussing the Bible with anyone interested. In 1966, he sold the company he had started, returned with his family to the United States, and settled in Houston, where he would live until his passing. Garland experienced both success and failure as a businessman and inventor but never let the failures keep him down for long. Over the years, he started several companies in the oil industry and acquired multiple patents. Despite his successes, he remained grounded in his faith and always gave God the credit for his achievements. He was devoted to his family, both immediate and extended—with a special love and affection for his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great, great grandchildren. Garland was a generous man and always willing to help those in need. Garland is survived by his wife, Linda Walker, stepson Shawn Coker (Samantha), and his three children, Anne Quinn (Kim), Wayne Walker (Lora), and Sharon Coppinger (Stan). Garland had four grandchildren, Stacy Schochler (Danny), Justin Walker (Jennifer), Julie McWilliams (Darren) and Ruby Coker. He was blessed with eight great grandchildren, and two great, great grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Avalee Walker and Ruth Walker. He is preceded in death by his first wife Mary Lee; his parents; two sisters: Maxine Autrey and husband, Dan; Geneva Daniel and husband, Floyd; four brothers: George and wife Peggy; Carl and wife Joye; Rayford and Lloyd. While Garland’s passing leaves a great void, his family is grateful knowing that on December 24th, he received the best Christmas gift ever. A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Yoakum at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025 with a meal following in the reception hall of the church. On-line guest book may be signed at www.thielecooper.com Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656. |