Donald “Don” Keith Walker, 78, of Rock Hill, South Carolina, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at Piedmont Medical Center, surrounded by family. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.
Born on October 10, 1947, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Don was the son of the late Jasper Clayton and Minnie Bishop Walker. He attended Rock Hill High School and went on to serve in the United States Air Force as a Jet Engine Mechanic from 1966 until he was honorably discharged in 1970. Throughout his time served, Don earned a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and an Air Force Good Conduct Medal. After leaving the Air Force, he was employed at Worthington Steel, where he held many different positions, starting in the shipping department and later working as a truck driver, production foreman, and traffic manager, before retiring as a plant manager. After retirement, he owned and managed Newport Hardware.
Don loved playing golf, fishing, spending time with his family, and his dogs. He held a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, whom he loved very much. Over the years, he always had a dog to love, and it brings comfort to know that he is now reunited with his beloved companions, Sam, Charlie, and Biscuit.
Don is survived by his wife, Cynthia Walker, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage. He is also survived by his sons, Scott (Melissa) Walker and Kevin (Emily) Walker; grandchildren, Kaitlyn Walker, Tyler Walker, Zane Walker, and Nick Walker; siblings Shirley Henson, Rick (Melinda) Walker, Elaine (Rick) McDaniel; many nieces and nephews; and his dog, Zoey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jasper Clayton and Minnie Bishop Walker; his sister, Sue Phillips; his brother, Mike Walker.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, April 9, at 2:00 pm at Neely’s Creek ARP Church. Visitation will be prior to the service located in the Neely’s Creek ARP Church Sanctuary from 1:00 pm-1:45 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Charlotte Avenue Church of Christ (339 Charlotte Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29730) or Neely’s Creek ARP Church (974 Neely’s Creek Road, Rock Hill, SC 29730).
The family would like to thank the nurses, doctors, and staff in the CVICU department at Piedmont Medical Center.