Donald Eugene Walker

Donald Eugene Walker, a man of humble beginnings who was raised on a small farm in Farmington, Arkansas, passed away on November 22nd after a brief battle with cancer. He was a University of Arkansas graduate and had a long-standing career in Banking, working for Arvest for 42 years as an Executive in Siloam Springs, Bentonville, and Tulsa.

Don was known for his kind treatment of others and his active involvement in his communities. He was a lifelong Christian and a member of the Church of Christ. He played a role in preserving the Peel Mansion in Bentonville; served as the Chairman of the Board of Land Legacy, a Tulsa-based nonprofit land trust; and was a member of the Tulsa Open Space Alliance. Additionally, he was part of Tulsa's Vision 2025 leadership team, co-chaired Vision 2; held a board seat on the Tulsa Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Oklahoma Business Roundtable Board; and was involved in the Indian Nations Council- Scouting America; River Parks Authority; Morningcrest Healthcare Charitable Foundation; Tulsa Community College; Arkansas Alumni Association’s National Board of Directors- Treasurer and President; Arkansas State Chamber Board of Directors, Natural State Council, Scouting America– Chairman; John Brown University Board of Directors, Director Emeritus; and Treasurer of the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust.

Despite his many accomplishments, Don was most proud of being a grandfather, or "Pop", to his grandson Walker. This role required that he spend countless hours designing and building robots, tanks, and vast dioramas. Don was also a devoted and loving husband, father, and friend. Don is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sheroll Smith Walker, daughter Jessica Walker Nohl, grandson Walker Nohl, and son-in-law, Brent Nohl. He is also survived by his brother Larry Walker and his wife BeAnn, sister Candes Wilson and her husband Jim, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends who are like family.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Betty Ruth Walker, and his younger sister Barbara Woody.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust in Don's memory.

A celebration of Don’s remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024, at the University of Arkansas Alumni House, Please drop in from 4 to 7 pm.