Forrest Randolph (Randy) Walker Jr., of Cross Plains, lost his lengthy battle with Multiple Sclerosis on June 15, 2023.

Randy was born in El Paso, Texas, on July 30, 1949 to Forrest and Helen Walker. Before moving back to Cross Plains to raise their family, the family enjoyed a brief stretch at an oil-field camp south of Stith.  Growing up in Cross Plains, Randy attended school, played sports, participated in extracurricular activities, and graduated from Cross Plains High School in 1967. Randy then furthered his education by obtaining an Agricultural Business Degree from Tarleton State College in 1971.  During this time, Randy married the love of his life, Vickie Sue Hickman, on August 23, 1969.  They were married for 53 years and had three children.

Randy was a member of the Cross Plains Methodist Church. He was active in the community, serving in the rodeo club, athletic booster club, Cross Plains Little League, and was president of the homecoming committee. Randy loved the outdoors, where he enjoyed hunting, playing softball, and riding horses. However, more than anything, he loved to work.  Randy was employed by various companies over the years: ACCO feeds, Cross Plains Grain and Peanut, Texas State Inspection Service, Morales Construction, and 3M, from which he retired. He would also take day jobs working or gathering cattle or would focus on improving the family farm, like building fence with his “crew”.  His “crew” being Vickie and the kids.  Believing in the importance of hard work, he tried to instill a strong work ethic in his children, making sure they were good hands.  He also taught them to play sports, ride horses, and the importance of family. Later Randy was blessed with six grandchildren and one great-granddaughter, each having a special place in his heart.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, sister Nancy, sister Sue Walker Lewis, and her husband T.J. Lewis.

Randy is survived by his wife, Vickie of Cross Plains, daughter, Stephanie Garrett of Bangs, son, Colby Walker and wife Darcie of Cross Plains, son, Brock Walker and wife Amberly of Austin. Other survivors include his grandchildren, Taylor Chew, Zoie Mitchell and husband Kyle, Larson Walker, Carsyn Walker, Beau Barker, Knox Walker, and great-granddaughter Helen Mitchell.

A Memorial Service will be held at the First Methodist Church of Cross Plains on June 25th at 2:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cross Plains Volunteer Fire Dept or Cross Plains EMS.

Online condolences, memories and tributes can be made to the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net