Elden Earl Walker passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the age of 99. Born on July 1, 1925, in Hinton, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Nannie Ellen Dobbins and Audrey Oakley Walker. Elden was predeceased by his beloved wife of 51 years, Harriett Ann Schultz Walker.

A World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Elden served with honor in the 6th Marine Division, fighting in the South Pacific from 1943 to 1945. Though his service deeply shaped his values, he rarely spoke of it, choosing instead to live a life marked by humility and dedication to others.

Elden was a devoted husband, father of three, loving grandfather, and proud great-grandfather. He found his greatest fulfillment in the company of his family and close friends, always giving selflessly of his time and energy. Known for his many talents, Elden enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies, including fishing, hunting, gardening, woodworking, and plant propagation. His skill in repairing and crafting furniture was matched only by his generosity in sharing his work with those around him.

The bond he shared with his six grandchildren was especially dear to him, and their time together brought him immense joy. Elden took a deep interest in their lives, offering unwavering support and encouragement. He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith that will be cherished for generations to come.

In addition to his wife, Elden was predeceased by his sister, Kathleen Walker Hewitt, and his brother, Max Walker.

He is survived by his three children: David Walker and his wife Tracy, Bruce Walker and his wife Jeanne, both of Columbia, and his daughter Elizabeth "Betsy" Rush and her husband Rick of Denver, Colorado. His memory is lovingly carried on by his six grandchildren: Clarke Walker and his wife JaneAnn, Brett Rush and his wife Katie, Elizabeth Walker, Ellen Walker Rush Hofmann and her husband Kyle, Katherine Walker Bradley and her husband Robbie, and Collins Walker and his wife Rachel. Elden also leaves behind three great-grandchildren: Elden Rush, Grace Rush, and William Walker.

The Walker family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Prisma Hospice for their compassionate care, particularly to his nurse Kendall, and to the dedicated caregivers Lena, Gwen, and Laura, whose kindness and attentiveness provided comfort in his final days.

Elden's legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The graveside service for Mr. Walker will be held at 11 o'clock, Friday, September 20th, at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 7100 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia. The family will receive friends from 4:30-6 o'clock, Thursday evening at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO BOX 758516, Topeka, KS 66675 ( www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate ); or to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 1100 Sumter St, Columbia, SC 29201.