Walker, Stephen Wayne
12/11/1963 - 10/29/2023
Stephen Wayne Walker, 59, of Waukeenah, Jefferson County, Florida, passed away on October 29, 2023 in Wakulla County, Florida when his life was taken from him and he left this earth way too soon.
Stephen was born on December 11, 1963, in Tallahassee, Florida, to Wayne and Barbara (Nobles) Walker. He was a happy and easy baby; he kept that happy and easy disposition throughout his days, no matter the challenge or adversity he faced. A man of strong character and unwavering dedication, Stephen was an asset and blessing to the lives of all who knew him, never hesitating to help out anyone in need but also always ready for a good time, a trip to the beach, the river, or just to hang out and have a few laughs with friends and family.
Stephen attended Aucilla Christian Academy, where he made lifetime friendships. He was known for his friendly demeanor and warm smile, which endeared him to all who crossed his path. He never met a stranger and always left a great impression on everyone. He spent his work life primarily with the City of Tallahassee in the Water Department, where he worked tirelessly for 35 years. He started as a ditch-digger there at age 18 and steadily climbed the ranks, eventually becoming a Construction Chief before retiring in 2019.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Stephen was a devoted family man. He cherished his time with his wife, Chrissy Lojan, and his daughter, Jackie (Jules) Cifreo. Stephen also embraced his role as a stepfather to Daniella Bishop, providing love and guidance to her as if she were his own. He was a source of strength and support to his parents, Wayne and Barbara Walker, and shared a deep bond with his brothers, Jeff Walker and Derek (Liz) Walker. Stephen’s extended family held a special place in his heart, including his uncles, Charlie (Rachel) Walker, Monroe (Nora) Walker, Herman (Tempa Lee) Walker, and Olan (Cindy) Nobles. Stephen loved his nieces and nephews, Katherine and Wayne Walker (Jeff) and Luke and Lily Walker (Derek). He was a beloved brother-in-law to John Lojan and Justin Louque and a cherished uncle to Isabella Lojan and Avery Louque. Stephen’s mother-in-law, Patricia Elrod, held a special place in his heart, and he treasured the love and support of his many cousins, especially the close relationships he had with Sherry D. Walker, Sandra Walker (Todd) Nichols, and Charles Walker. He is also survived by scores of other relatives including great uncles and aunts and cousins.
Stephen’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to public service. He served as the Jefferson County District 5 County Commissioner for nearly 12 years, a role in which he took great pride and used his position to advocate for everyone in the County and to champion ethical public service and preservation of our land, our water, and our rights as Jefferson County residents. Stephen’s leadership extended to his appointment as Chairman of the County Commission from 2015-2016 and 2020-2021. One of his most significant achievements was his successful campaign to protect the Wacissa River from commercialization, ensuring its preservation for future generations to enjoy. Then, he worked to get recreational facilities added to the head of the Wacissa River so many could enjoy the beauty of the River he loved so much. His Facebook page was always updated with news and alerts for his constituents and other county residents because he had a heart for those who had chosen him as their representative; he was dedicated to giving his best to his commitment to Jefferson County as a Commissioner.
In his leisure time, Stephen pursued a variety of hobbies that brought him immense joy. He was an avid supporter of the Miami Hurricanes and enjoyed cheering them on during football season. Stephen found solace in the great outdoors, whether it be exploring the mountains or basking in the serenity of the beach. He had a deep appreciation for nature’s beauty and often found himself captivated by the rhythmic crashing of the waves. Stephen’s love for adventure led him to engage in various water activities, both in saltwater and freshwater settings, particularly taking folks out on his airboat on the Wacissa River. He had several airboats, the first of which was made of plywood–a true Southern engineering project!
He enjoyed racing his #33 Fina Mart car on the dirt tracks back in the day, going to races with friends on the weekends. Stephen also enjoyed learning about history and visiting historical sites including graveyards as part of his genealogical research and then sharing his findings with other family members. He also had a mischievous side and delighted in playing pranks, making prank phone calls, and sharing laughter with his friends. He would randomly send cartoons and jokes to friends via text message, which was a way he let those he loved know that he was thinking of them. Stephen’s love for music accompanied him on his journeys, particularly while cruising in his beloved Jeep. A small comfort to those he left behind is he died doing what he loved: driving his Jeep to Shell Point where he loved to sit, listen to music, and watch the water come and go in the Gulf of Mexico.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a visitation at Beggs Funeral Home, located at 485 E Dogwood Street, Monticello, FL, on Thursday, November 2, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. A traditional funeral service will be held on Friday, November 3, at 10:00am at the Kilpatrick Civic Auditorium, located at the “old Jefferson County High School” (575 S Water Street, Monticello, FL), followed by a graveside service at the Waukeenah Cemetery. After the graveside service, family and friends are welcome to gather at the Wacissa Christian Church.
The compassionate staff at Beggs Funeral Home in Monticello, FL, will be assisting the family with the funeral arrangements, ensuring that Stephen’s final journey is handled with the utmost care and respect.
Stephen Wayne Walker will forever be remembered as a pillar of strength, a devoted family man, and a dedicated public servant. His legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his community will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
