Paul was the loving son of the late Paul E. “Sonny” Walker and Elda Mae (Darneal) Walker. He was born on December 28, 1957 in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Paul lived in the Panama and Shady Point area all of his life. He was a 1976 graduate of Panama High School. Paul was a proud Razorback fan having been the Captain of the football team and an outstanding baseball player.
Paul was a dedicated outdoorsman whose passion for camping, hunting, and fishing profoundly shaped his life. His enduring love for nature was a gift he eagerly passed down to his children and grandchildren. Camping was particularly special to him, as it provided the opportunity to gather around a warm campfire with family and friends, sharing stories of monster bucks, fishing triumphs, and cherished memories from their youth.
Professionally, Paul devoted 30 years to Whirlpool before becoming a certified diesel mechanic. He later retired as a maintenance man for the Choctaw Nation, a role he performed with pride, deeply honoring his Choctaw heritage.
A true enthusiast of classic vehicles, Paul cherished his old Chevy pick-ups throughout his life. His pride and joy was a black 1971 model, which he transformed into a four-wheel drive affectionately named “The Beast.”
An ardent supporter of the OU Sooners, his love for his team was another reflection of his spirited personality.
Paul’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the countless stories shared around the campfire.
Paul is survived by:
His wife of 47 years:
Sherri Walker of the home
Two sons:
Matt Walker and wife Nikki of Shady Point, Oklahoma
Weston Walker of Texas
Three grandchildren:
Kearston Hayes, Seth Walker, and Wade Walker
Two brothers:
Gerald Gotes and wife Lois of Panama, Oklahoma
Gary Walker of Oregon
His best friend:
Jimmy Cheely of Panama, Oklahoma
Paul also leaves behind five nephews, 10 nieces, many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Numerous other loved ones and a host of friends that he loved dearly.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Edward “Sonny” and Elda Mae Walker; one sister, Barbara Gayle James; one brother, Mark Walker; and his father-in-law, Everett Harp.
A Celebration of Life service to honor Paul’s life will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 12, 2026 at Calvary Church in Poteau, Oklahoma with Pastor Tim Painter officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of Dowden-Roberts Funeral & Cremation Center of Poteau, Oklahoma. “LeFlore County’s Only On-Site Crematory”
The family will have visitation on Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Dowden-Roberts Funeral & Cremation Center Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma.
To view Paul’s online guestbook, please visit www.dowdenrobertscremationcenter.com
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