Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlights on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circling flight,
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there, I do not sleep.
WALKER, John Elwood
1932 - 2025
In Loving Memory of Elwood “Johnny” Walker September 18, 1932 – April 13, 2025
A life well lived, a heart well loved “Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near— Still loved, still missed, and always dear.”
Elwood "Johnny" Walker passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025, after a courageous battle with dementia. Born on September 18, 1932, Johnny was the second-youngest of seven siblings and was raised in the heart of South Durham, where he remained deeply rooted all his life.
A hardworking man with a generous heart, Johnny bought his own farm and worked the land well into his early eighties. Alongside his beloved wife Annie (Laurie) Fraiser Walker, whom he married on April 23, 1954, Johnny was always ready to help anyone in need. The two were well known and well loved in their community. They especially loved to reminisce about the Friday night dances at the Salmon Creek Dance Hall—a treasured part of their story.
Johnny was full of life, humor, and warmth. He was never without a story or a mischievous smile, and he remained a big kid at heart even through his final days. When the call came on April Fools’ Day that he wasn’t doing well, I feared the worst—but in true Johnny fashion, he perked up again. One last trick. He definitely got me.
He was predeceased by his loving wife Laurie and leaves behind his devoted adoptive granddaughter Amanda Laprise, and her children, Elizabeth McKellar and Ebony Wheeler. He also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins who will always remember his kindness, laughter, and the lasting impact he had on their lives.
Johnny’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and community. His presence will be missed, but his spirit will remain with all who had the privilege to know him.
Services will be held on May 3rd, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.at the South Durham United Church (190 Rue Principale, Durham Sud), followed by the interment at Saint James Cemetery. We will take the time to honor the memory of Laurie Walker as we reunite these two in heaven. Their love and partnership remain a guiding light to all who knew them, and their spirits now rest together in peace
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