Obituary
Edward Earl Walker

Edward Earl Walker, 87, of Apex, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in the presence of his loving family on March 3, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina. Born on February 26, 1938, in Huntsville, Alabama, Ed was a man of deep faith, unwavering principles, and a zest for life that touched all who knew him. Ed is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Patsy Malone Walker; their two sons, Bradford Evan Walker and Douglas Keith Walker; daughter-in-law, Ashley Welch Walker; and cherished grandchildren, Douglas Wellsley Walker and Addison Rayne Walker, all residing in Raleigh. A 1956 graduate of Huntsville High School, Ed's journey to lifelong love began while financing his first car at American Discount, where Patsy's assistance and sympathy for his sunburn sparked a connection. He confided to friends later that day he had met the woman he would marry, and they wed on August 26, 1961, at Holmes Street United Methodist Church in Huntsville. The couple moved to Auburn University, where Ed discovered his passion for computer programming while studying Civil Engineering. As the manager of the school’s Computer Center, he developed Auburn’s first-in-the-nation software-driven class registration system – a system that remained in use for decades to follow. In 1972, Ed and Patsy relocated their family to Raleigh where Ed began work at Triangle University Computation Center (TUCC), a cooperative venture between Duke, NC State and UNC, providing shared main-frame computing services. Ed eventually served as the Center’s President and Director. In retirement, Ed founded Router Specialties, designing and manufacturing woodworking equipment and accessories sold nationally. His expertise as a woodworker led to a number of publications, including an article in Fine Woodworking in October 1991. Ed's life was profoundly shaped by his faith and love for people. As a young couple, he and Patsy accepted an invitation from their best friends to attend Mid-Way Baptist Church, where they committed their lives to Christ. They later led a ministry there for many years, teaching Bible lessons to Raleigh’s underserved youth through puppet shows and engaging skits. He and Patsy were later members of The Shepherd's Church in Cary, NC. Ed's life was a rich tapestry of passions, adventures and interests. He enjoyed animals, running, building, wood-carving, ballroom dancing, and travel. Alongside his wife, he explored the country for over a decade with a close-knit RV group, creating cherished memories. A dedicated marathon runner, Ed participated in numerous races, including a Disney marathon he ran with his son, Doug. Ed's profound love for animals led him to become a self-taught expert in dog training and obedience. He established a YouTube channel where he produced engaging instructional training videos. Sharing his service dogs, Amy and Bitsy, with residents of local retirement communities brought him immense joy. He also maintained multiple fish aquariums and a koi pond, a passion he delighted in sharing with his beloved grandchildren. As an active member of the local Koi Club, Ed conducted workshops on minor medical procedures for koi, further demonstrating his dedication to the well-being of animals. For over 40 years, Ed and Patsy resided in Apex, NC, in a home they meticulously designed and built together. This home stood as a testament to their shared vision and dedication. The family will receive friends at Edenton Street United Methodist Church in downtown Raleigh from 5-7 PM on Friday, March 14, 2025. A graveside service will be held at Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville, Alabama at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Ed's memory to the Durham Rescue Mission or the SPCA of Wake County. Donations to the Durham Rescue Mission can be made online at https://durhamrescuemission.org/donate/ or by contacting them at 919-688-9641. Contributions to the SPCA of Wake County can be made online at https://donate.spcawake.org/ . Ed's life was a testament to love, innovation, and service, leaving an indelible mark on his family, friends, and community.