Obituary of Willis Walker

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Mr. Willis Ruben Walker, of Hammondvale, NB, who passed away peacefully at his home on October 12, 2025. Born in Sussex, NB, on February 17, 1932, Willis was the son of the late Alexander and Eliza (Black) Walker.

Willis was the last surviving member of his immediate family and was predeceased by his brothers, Cecil and James. He will live on in the hearts of his niece, Barb Walker of Saint John, her family, and several cousins.

Willis was a cherished friend and neighbor, known throughout the community. He lived in Sussex at the homestead on Main Street for 73 years until he moved to his country home in Hammondvale. He was a hard worker and spent most of his life as a carpenter. He loved the outdoors and was very knowledgeable about trees. If he didn’t recognize one, he’d ask around until he found out all about it. One of his favorite hobbies was woodworking, and he made many beautiful creations on his lathe. He also had a lifelong love of cars, especially his beloved ’58 Ford Edsel. Willis was a man of faith and a devoted member of Trinity Anglican Church.

Willis was very proud of his garden, where he grew an abundance of flowers and vegetables each summer and shared them with friends, family, and neighbors. He enjoyed attending local events, particularly the music nights at the Hammondvale Fire Hall, and meals at JJ’s and All Seasons. Willis never missed a gathering with the Seeleys or the Titus clan where he shared tall tales and stories from days gone by with a twinkle in his eye. A favorite pastime was a drive to St. Martins for a bowl of chowder, where he could take in both the scenery and the conversation.

Willis never missed a chance to make people smile, often impressing others with his quick wit and his famous ability to recite the alphabet backwards. At Christmas time, he was known to don his Santa suit, ready to hand out gifts, and he was always the one to butter your nose on your birthday. His humour and lively spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

A heartfelt thank you is extended to his devoted homemakers Jolie Budrow-Girouard, Erica Long, and Adrienne Budrow for their patience and care. Thank you to Jason Carll for his companionship, making sure Willis never missed an appointment or a party, helping fill his final years with the joy of the things he loved most.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, NB (506-433-1176). A Celebration of Willis’ life will be held on Thursday, October 16 at 11:00am from the Wallace Community Chapel.

Donations in memory of Willis may be made to the Mark Carll Memorial Scholarship, Trinity Anglican Church, Sussex, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com