Obituary of James Madison Walker
James Madison Walker, lovingly known as ‘Madison’, was born on January 13, 1938, in Bay Minette, Alabama, to the late Wilson Walker, Sr. and Clittee Ann Christian Walker. Sadly, on December 1, 2023, Madison suddenly departed this earthly life at the age of 85.
Madison graduated from Douglasville High School in Bay Minette, Alabama, became a General Contractor, and also owned his own business. As a result of this being his area of expertise, he embraced any opportunity he had to assist others.
On July 11, 1975, Madison married the love of his life, Gladys Finn. They were married for 48 years.
In loving memory of Madison, a cherished soul whose profound love for life and unwavering kindness left an undeniable mark on all who knew him. Madison's passions were as vibrant as his spirit—finding joy in the thrill of horse racing, the tranquility of golf, and the simple pleasures of fishing, hunting, and farming. Yet, beyond these pursuits, Madison's true essence revealed itself as a beacon of support and goodwill within his community. His altruism knew no bounds; from aiding churches to assisting numerous family and friends by plowing snow and adeptly fixing and repairing their homes. His knack for home repairs was matched only by his boundless patience and eagerness to empower others with the art of maintenance. Madison's legacy will endure through the cherished memories of those whose lives he touched. In April 2023, he received the NAACP Appreciation Award.
Madison leaves behind to cherish his memories—his loving and caring wife, Gladys Walker; three sons, Kevin Derello of Monticello, NY, Wayne (Aquilla, PhD) Battle of Orlando, FL and Todd (Seneca) Walker of Snellville, GA; one daughter, Nicole Walker of Monticello, NY; four sisters, Minnie Paramore and Geraldine Cox, both of Monticello, NY, Laverna (Donald) Glover of St. Stephens, SC and Mary Cox of Bronx, NY; three brothers, Norman Walker of Oakland, CA, Wilson (Michele) Walker of Uniondale, NY, and Charles (Terri) Walker of Monticello, NY; a sister-in-law, The Honorable Josephine Victoria Finn (Marshita); and one uncle, Bishop Leon Clyde Walker. He also leaves ten grandchildren, Kevin Williams, Adrian Derello, Sr., Dante Jackson, Tyler Jackson, Amber Walker, Zariah Walker, Madisen Walker, Dr. Jasmine Zapata (Miguel, Sr.), Nick Battle and Nate Battle; ten great-grandchildren, Khyiem Williams, Adrian Derello, Jr., Brighton Derello, Novalea Derello, Dakota Derello, Lydia Derello, America Zapata, Miguel Aaron Zapata, Lillyana Zapata, and Miguel Aace Zapata; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Madison was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Wilson Augustine Walker and Leo D. Walker, and one grandson, Aaron Wayne Battle.
Madison, we loved you dearly and will miss you always. May you rest in peace.
Arrangements are under the direction of the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home of Monticello. For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com