Lee R. Walker, 76, one of the original enlisted U.S. Air Force pilots during World War II, died Thursday, September 24, 1998, at his residence in Shalimar, Fla. He was born March 29, 1922, in Hickory, a son of the late Harry B. and Bena Miller Walker. He attended Hickory High School and graduated in 1940. Surviving are his wife, Beatrice V. Walker; three daughters, Kelly Wells of Melbourne, Fla., Carol Hayes of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Linda Gates of Niceville, Fla.; two sons, Paul Walker of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., and Steven Walker of Shalimar; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Willa Dowler of Midway and Freda Zeigler of McDonald; five brothers, Wilbert and Jay Walker of Hickory, William Walker of New Lexington, Ohio, Fred Walker of Cross Creek and Raymond Walker of Weirton, W.Va. Mr. Walker flew 70 missions with the 153rd Liaison Squadron in the European Theater during World War II. He later declined a commission and joined the maintenance unit. After numerous assignments, a tour of Vietnam and a few other assignments, he retired from the 33rd TFW at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., in March 1977. He enjoyed more than 21 years of retirement. Mr. Walker's wishes for cremation will be carried out and a private ceremony will be held at a later date. Any donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or any local hospice. Copyright ©1998 Observer Publishing Co.Last updated Wednesday, October 14, 1998Lee R. Walker
Flew 70 missions during World War II
Mr. Walker retired as a chief master sergeant.