04/16/2026
We are truly without words for the loss of our friend, John Walker
The Walkers have been part of the Journey to Bethlehem from the very beginning. Whether he was playing the part of a guard, standing in as a wiseman, helping the kids stamp leather, passing out flyers at the parade, or driving the truck pulling our float—John was always there.
He might’ve been running late and making Kim lose her mind (she was always saying, “I don’t know where my brother is”), but him and Samantha always showed up. And that’s what matters… they showed up.
My guess is the reason he was always late was because he was talking to someone—anyone, everyone. John was one of those people who never met a stranger, and he made you feel like you had known him your entire life. He was never in a hurry when he was talking to you. You and your conversation were important to him.
Now it’s our turn as a community to show up for his family.
If you’re able, please consider supporting the family through the GoFundMe. Every bit helps and means more than words can say.
Most importantly, please keep the entire Walker family in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
On April 14th, 2026, the world became a lot more dim with the… Julie Gillispie-Carle needs your support for Honoring John Walker by Caring for Sam, Ava and Maverick