Jacob S. Walker (Jay) "Poppy"

Jacob S. Walker (Jay), affectionately known as "Poppy", passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the age of 89, in his beloved hometown of Harrogate, Tennessee. He was born on April 18, 1935, the son of the late William Frank and Leona Jane Walker.

Jay was a devoted family man and an unwavering pillar of strength in his community. A born-again believer in Christ, Jay exemplified a life of faith and service. His commitment to his church was evident in his many roles as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, worship leader, youth leader, and Member of The Gideons International.

He also took great joy in driving the church bus, welcoming young and old alike to enjoy moments of fellowship. His nurturing spirit was reflected in his passion for gardening and lawn care, where he found solace and satisfaction in nature's beauty.

Jay loved picking out melodies on the piano, guitar, banjo, and ukulele, bringing joy to those within earshot. A prayerful believer, he was dedicated to reading the Bible, drawing wisdom from its pages and sharing it with others.

Jay was a loving husband and father, and his favorite title was being called "Poppy". He embraced his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather with joy and dedication, creating lasting memories that will be treasured for generations.

Those who had the privilege of knowing him will remember him as a faithful servant, always ready to lend a hand, whether it was to a neighbor in need or through his continuous commitment to disaster relief efforts. His zest for life extended beyond his volunteer efforts; he was also a passionate fan of the University of Tennessee sports, embodying the spirit of a true Tennessee Volunteer.

Jay served honorably in the United States Air Force. While stationed at F. E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, he met his wife of 67 years, Genevieve.

In addition to his parents, Jay is preceded in death by his siblings and their spouses, Leonard (Anna Mae) Walker, Bill (Lizzie Mae) Walker, Ada (Lloyd) Cole, Dora (Corum) Keck, George Walker, Mylus (Muriel) Walker, Bonnie (Gene) Bliss and Bobby Walker; brothers-in-law, Bob Ogle and Delbert Johnston; sisters-in-law, Roberta J. Dodge and Virginia Johnston; and sons-in-law, Marion Schneider and Phillip Oh.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of sixty-seven years, Genevieve Walker; his children, Rhonda Oh, Brad (Lesia) Walker, Valorie (Bob) Artz and Mitzi Schneider; grandchildren, Kyle (Taylor) Walker, Kayla (Zach) Herdt, Sidni (Jay) Yowell, Lauren (Ronnie) Warren and Harrison Oh; great-grandchildren, Olivia Rowe, Charlie Walker, Jack Walker, Camden Walker, James Yowell, Harlow Herdt and Genevieve Warren; step-granddaughter, Tarah Keck; step-great-granddaughters, Halle Rowland and Brighton Shuran; sister, Kathleen Ogle; sisters-in-law, Peggy Walker, Judy Walker and Wilma Johnston; brother-in-law, Eddie (Georgia) Johnston; and a host of relatives and friends.

The family of Jacob S. Walker (Jay) will receive friends on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY. Funeral services will follow at 6:00 p.m.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Harrogate Cemetery in Harrogate, TN. The pallbearers will be Kyle Walker, Harrison Oh, Zach Herdt, Jay Yowell, Ronnie Warren, Greg Walker, Scott Walker, Randall Walker and Fred Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Eddie Johnston, Pat Dodge, Winston Carroll, Haston Ingram, Norman Ferguson and Rev. Mitch Bradshaw. 

The legacy of Jay Walker is one of love and kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his influence and the warmth of his spirit will forever resonate in the lives he touched. His dedication to family and faith will not be forgotten, and he will remain a guiding light for those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to The Gideons International. In memory of Jacob S. Walker http://Gideons.org/donate.

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Jay Walker are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.