Richard James Walker

Richard James “RJ” Walker, 67, passed peacefully on February 14, 2025 following a short illness. He was born June 18, 1957 in Syracuse, NY and was a 1975 graduate of West Genesee High School, as well as, a very proud alumnus of The Ohio State University where he established life-long friendships and a love for The Buckeyes.

RJ was preceded in death by his father Richard Walker and his sister Constance (Walker) Bush with whom he reunites with in Heaven.

Throughout his life, RJ made many friends as he often relocated during childhood and later for his career. He was a successful telecommunications industry executive allowing RJ the opportunity to be involved in many high-profile projects: the design and construction of the cellular infrastructure in Ohio, Michigan, and Puerto Rico; engineering the Virgin Media fiber and data networks throughout the UK; developing the pre-paid wireless infrastructure for North America, as well as Central and Latin America; and RJ was also involved in some of the first deployments of IPTV over copper in Southern US markets. 

Outside of the exciting work he did, RJ loved cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes and attending football games at ‘The Shoe’ in Columbus; however, he did prefer living a simpler, rural life with his family whether it was in Bardstown, KY or more recently in Frankfort, OH. Sitting in a rocking chair on the front porch of a farmhouse, watching the sun set was his favorite place to unwind. 

RJ is survived by his mother Stella Walker; three daughters, Anastasia (Eric Austria), Caroline, and Rebecca Walker; siblings Robert Walker and Deborah (Anthony) Freeman with whom he was closest; several cousins, nephews, nieces, including special niece/Goddaughter Elizabeth (Christopher) Guibord, and many friends, especially his “Ohio State – Park Hall” dorm brothers who have remained close for nearly 50 years. 

A funeral mass in RJ’s memory will be held at St. Benignus Church (Greenfield, OH) on March 3, 2025 at 1:30pm. A private burial will be scheduled for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation in RJ’s memory to either Saint Benignus Church (Greenfield, OH), Ohio’s Hospice (www.ohioshospice.org), or a charity of your choosing.