William Howard Walker, also known lovingly as “Big Bill,” passed away peacefully in his home at age 66.

Big Bill, also appropriately known in his youth as “Wild Bill,” was born August 4, 1959, to Lee Hughes Walker and Patricia Pope Walker in Jackson, MS. He was raised in Utica, MS. He loved the outdoors and was happiest at the river or somewhere off in the country.

Big Bill married Kelli Smith in October 2011 in Vicksburg, MS. They enjoyed many adventures together and would often take off somewhere random on a weekend. He lived life big and you never knew what shenanigans there would be.

He was very proud of and loved his children, Bill Walker Jr., Deanie Walker and Landon Walker. He had a reserved softness for his grandchildren, Jase Walker, Hannah Kate Walker and Charlotte Crosland. You would often hear him bragging about his grandchildren.

Big Bill was larger than life. You were full of laughs when he was around, and he had many funny sayings. He taught us to be strong and courageous and never to back down. We will cherish all the good memories.

Big Bill is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Bland Walker, son Landon Walker, and grandson Karson Sanders.

“Aint nothing chicken but the bill and that’s chicken still.”