Wayne Thomas “Tom” Walker, 86, of Belleville passed away peacefully in his sleep the morning of July 14, 2024.
Tom was born on May 20, 1938 to Violet Helen Graves and Glenn Wayne Walker in East St. Louis, Illinois. At a young age, Tom accepted Christ as his savior, always trusting in the Lord’s provision and protection in his life. After graduating from East St. Louis High School in 1956, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1958, and served over 27 valiant years flying fixed wing aircraft and helicopters until his retirement as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. He continued to pilot for Petroleum Helicopters for many years in the Gulf of Mexico in tumultuous conditions, often risking his life for others’ rescue. The U.S. Army recognized Tom with The Air Medal, The Bronze Star, and the Distinguished Flying Cross, our nation’s highest award for extraordinary aerial achievement, in addition to numerous other medals that set Tom apart for heroism and excellent service.
On December 22, 1962, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth Jean Corran, and they were married for 61 and a half years. They had two daughters, Kay Michelle and Beth Ann. When asked what he was most proud of, he named his family as his greatest accomplishment and joy.
Tom had memberships to Masonic Lodge #852 A.F. & A.M., Ainad Shrine, American Legion Post #1937, and the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association. Tom was an avid golfer, with the proud achievement of a hole-in-one. He was a grill master, enjoyed westerns and war movies, and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Tom was a generous man who loved his family and served his country with honor.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Glenda Cruikshank.
He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Jean Walker (nee Corran), his daughters Kay (Jeff) Smith of Bentonville, AR and Beth (Dallas) Roussel of Belleville, IL, his brother Glenn Wayne Walker Jr., his sister Mardel Cheatham, seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and many other loving family members.
Visitation: Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 4:00 – 8:00 pm at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL with a Masonic Service starting at 7:30 pm, and Monday, July 22, 2024 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Edgemont Bible Church (5100 N Illinois St, Fairview Heights, IL).
Celebration of Life: Monday, July 22, 2024 at 11:00 am at Edgemont Bible Church (5100 N Illinois St, Fairview Heights, IL) with Rev. Doug White Officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
In lieu of flowers, the family ask that memorial contributions be made to the Edgemont Bible Church food pantry in Fairview Heights, IL, or the American Legion Post #1937 in Belleville, IL.
