Cody Franklin Walker
Cody Franklin Walker entered this world on July 6, 1935, in Pinoak, West Virginia, bringing with him a spark of energy, humor, and determination that never faded. He was the seventh of eight children born to Everet Council Walker, a lifelong coal miner, and Belva Kester Walker, a devoted homemaker. As the youngest of four boys, his father and older brothers were rough and tumble and made sure that he grew up to be a tough, fun loving and hard-working man. His mother and sisters provided him with love and support and always stepped in when his brothers got a little too rough. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, brothers Ralph, Paul, and Dewey, and sisters Velma, Mae, and Ruby, and is survived by his younger sister, Ila Tschanz (Charles).
In his younger years, Cody loved playing baseball, and throughout his life, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and fixing just about anything—often with nothing more than a wire coat hanger, electrical tape, and a hammer. A faithful member of Dublin Presbyterian Church for many years, Cody’s life was grounded in his faith and his devotion to his family.
Cody married the love of his life, Hilda, on September 4, 1953. For nearly 73 years, they shared a deep devotion, building a life filled with love, laughter, and hard work. The love Cody and Hilda shared transcended time and set a standard for all who knew them. Together, they poured their hearts into countless home projects, tended a summer garden whose harvest they canned and generously shared, and crafted beautiful stained-glass pieces and other handmade treasures. They spent countless hours driving through the winding roads of Virginia and West Virginia, taking in God’s breathtaking handiwork and always discovering something new. Many evenings ended with simple, perfect date nights fishing together on Claytor Lake.
They raised two children, Cody Dean and Robyn, who consider themselves blessed beyond measure to have had such an extraordinary father. Cody’s proudest accomplishment was being Papa to his eight grandchildren. He loved sharing stories, teaching them how to build and fix things, and offering life advice along with a hug that never let go.
Cody passed away on August 10, 2025. He is survived by his wife, Hilda Walker; his children, Cody Dean Walker (Lida) and Robyn Walker Kinder (Chris); his grandchildren, Amy Speck (Dylan), Chelsea Brown (Jared), Deborah Benny (Aaron), Alex Patterson (Kyle), Taylor Anderson (Justin), Rachel Patterson (Alyn), Regan Kinder, and Sam Kinder; and his great-grandchildren, Elly and Haley Brown, Kirby and Dawson Speck, Aaliyah, Aaron, and Akee Benny, and Cecil and “October Baby-to-Be” Anderson.
Cody’s life was defined by his love for his family, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the joy he found in every moment. His family will remember him not only for the many things he built and fixed, but for the love, laughter, and steadfast support he gave them every day of his life.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the home of Robyn and Chris Kinder with a reception immediately following. Please contact the family or Simpson Funeral home if you would like additional information. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dublin Presbyterian Church or the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Electric Road Chapel. (540)632-4200.
