Jackie Walker

Jackie Vernon "Jake" Walker, age 81, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away at 8:35 am, Monday, June 9, 2025, in Flora, Illinois.

Jake was born on April 15, 1944, in Bible Grove, Illinois the son of Noble and Flossie (Pierce) Walker. He married Arilla Coble on April 8, 1967, at Old Union Church of Christ and they shared 58 years of marriage.

Throughout his life, Jake embraced various roles, contributing to his community as a committed Lead Worker at North American Lighting in Flora until his retirement. His career was just one facet of a full life that extended far beyond the workplace. Jake served his country with honor and pride in the United States Army from July 31, 1962 to July 30, 1965, during the Vietnam War-a period that shaped not only his character but also deepened his sense of duty to his family and community.

A devoted member and former deacon of Red Brush Christian Church in Louisville, Jake found strength and companionship in his faith, exemplifying the values of kindness and service. He was always willing to lend a helping hand or share a warm smile with everyone he met.

Jake had a love for sports that ignited his passion for coaching little league teams, embodying the spirit of mentorship and encouragement for countless young players. His enthusiasm for the great outdoors manifested in countless camping and fishing trips, where he found joy in nature's simplicity. An old car enthusiast, Jake liked to attend car shows and relishing in the stories those vehicles could tell.

Above all, Jake was a family man, fiercely devoted to his loved ones. His unwavering support was a constant in the lives of his children and grandchildren, always present at their events-whether it was cheering from the sidelines or offering a listening ear after a long day. Jake's affection and pride in his family were evident to all who knew him.

Jake is survived by his wife: Arilla Walker of Louisville; children: Jeff (Amy) Walker of Louisville, Jay (Jodi) Walker of Louisville, Jakie (Arieanna) Walker of Bridgeport, Illinois; 8 grandchildren: Morgan (Dylan) Bailey of Louisville, Dylan (Fiancee Sydney Baier) Walker of Broadlands, Illinois, Bryce (Mackenzie) Walker of Louisville, Jaelyn Walker of Warrenville, Illinois, Zain Walker of Louisville, Brennan Walker of Louisville, Colson Walker of Bridgeport, Illinois, Ailey Walker of Bridgepot, Illinois; 3 great-grandchildren: Reagan Bailey, Caraline Walker, Jocelynn Bailey. He is also survived by 2 sisters: Kay (Jim) Taylor of Paris, Illinois, Ruthie Lashbrook of Patoka, Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Betty Belleville, Bill Walker, Mary Britton, Janet Culver, and Charlie Walker.

Funeral services to celebrate Jake's life will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville with James Mulvany officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Orchard Hill Cemetery, Louisville. Visitation will be held Saturday at the funeral home from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jake's memory to the Alzheimer's Association or Clay County Cancer Crusaders.

The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the family's care and arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a story or memory of Jake, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.