James Edward Walker

James Edward Walker, age 78, of Knoxville, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, July 16, at NHC Health Care Center.

He was born January 28, 1934, in Byington, Tenn., to the late Lula and Newt Walker.

James retired from Martin Marietta Energy Systems. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, yard work and cooking.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister, N. L. Hardin.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Mildred Walker; daughters, Carman (Mark) Hall, Jamesena (Twayne) Rutherford, both of Knoxville, and Tawana Mitchell of Oak Ridge; sons, James (Nikki) Mitchell and Edward Mitchell of Oak Ridge; 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; sisters, Lorraine (Theo) Thomkins, Almetta Chesney, and Geneva Harris, all of Knoxville; a very special niece, Cassie Bowie of Houston, Texas, and very devoted friends, Alfred (Faye) Walker and Rose Mitchell; and a host of nieces nephews, extended family, and friends.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Weatherford Mortuary. The funeral will follow at 7 p.m. with Rev. Celee Phillips and Rev. Tiki Dixon officiating.

A graveside service will be held on Friday at 9:30 a.m. at the Tennessee Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier Highway with military honors provided by the Tennessee National Guard Honor Guard.

The family asks that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society.

An online guest book can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.