Walker McGinnis

Walker McGinnis, 77, of Huntsville, Alabama, died peacefully Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the Hospice Care Center at Redstone Village. A beloved educator, coach, and community leader, Walker dedicated over 40 years of his life to serving the students and families of Huntsville City Schools. Throughout his career, he held various roles including Principal of Chapman Middle School, Assistant Principal at Whitesburg Middle School and Grissom High School, and a coach who inspired countless young athletes. His unwavering commitment to education and leadership left an indelible mark on the community.

A proud alumnus of Huntsville City Schools, Walker went on to graduate from Rhodes College, He was known for his kindness, integrity, and dedication to his students, who held him in the highest regard. In 2014, Walker was elected to the Huntsville School Board and served 7 years representing District 4. He was also a national speaker on Special Education and regulations, and in 1998, he compiled the Huntsville City Schools Section 504 Resource Guide. Walker was honored as the 2006 Outstanding Administrator by the Alabama Association of Foreign Language Teachers.

Walker had a deep love for his country and cherished his time in the U.S. Army Reserves, achieving the rank of Major.

Walker was preceded in death by his father, Colonel Eugene McGinnis, and his mother, Lillian Hood McGinnis. He is survived by his loving wife, Jeaneen Brown McGinnis; his son, Walker (Jay) McGinnis, and daughter-in-law, Mikelyn McGinnis; his daughter, Donessa Gattis, and son-in-law, Clayton Gattis; his sister, Elizabeth Deckert; and nephew, Kevin Deckert. He was also deeply cherished by his four grandchildren who brought him immense joy, Rivers McGinnis (12), Walker J. (Mac) McGinnis (8), Laurel Gattis (8), and Monroe Gattis (4).

A visitation for Walker will be held on Saturday, December 21, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Mayfair Church of Christ, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Walker’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched as a teacher, mentor, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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