Johnnie Walter, Jr.

Johnnie Walter, Jr., affectionately called “Uncle Jr” was born on March 29, 1930 in Reader, Arkansas and raised in Bluff City, Arkansas. Johnnie, Jr., was the first born son to the union of Johnnie and Lular Walter, Sr.He met and married his bride of over 60 years, Kizzie Mae Sandifer. To this union one child was born, Luanna Walter. Uncle Jr. was a veteran of the United State Army, in which he was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. After an honorable discharge, he began his life of entrepreneurship. He owned and operated Walter Trucking and later expanded to Johnny Walter Sand and Gravel. He was a savvy business man and through partnerships with numerous businesses through the Southern Arkansas Region his business was successful and prosperous. He provided employment for many family members and friends. He employed all of his younger brothers and instilled in them a strong and excellent work ethic. This in turn contributed to the continued success of the Walters family. His brothers emulated his path of success and eventually started their own businesses. Uncle Jr was often sought for advice and guidance. He diligently trained and assisted in raising his nephew, Derrell Woodley and the business continued to excel.Uncle Jr., was a faithful member of Union Grove Baptist Church in Bluff City, Arkansas. He served on the Deacon board, Usher board, Youth Department and Culinary Department. Being the true entrepreneur that he was; he often sold soft drinks from the back of his pickup truck. After remaining in business for more than 55 years, he retired in 2012. He leaves a legacy of success and professionalism. Uncle Jr was always the employer and never the employee. He passed into the Lord’s embrace on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at Wadley Regional Medical Center in Hope, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, nine siblings Mae Ethel, James, Jimmy Lee, Roosevelt, Fred, Earnest, Herbert, Robert Earl and Shelton; and a daughter, Luanna Walter.His legacy will continue to be saluted by his wife, Kizzie Mae Walter; two sisters, Ethel Mae Kirby and Francis Williams; three brothers, Howard Walters, Willie Walters and Horace Walters; a special nephew Derrell (Sharon) Woodley; and special niece, Janice Bryant; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, business colleagues and friends.