Walter Everette Williams, 91, of Norfolk, VA, passed away in his home on April 18, 2020. Walter, affectionately known as ‘Snook’, was born on December 18, 1928 to Henry and Annie Delores Williams, in Skippers, VA. He was the eldest of nine children born to this union. He attended Greensville County public schools and joined Antioch Baptist Church at an early age. Though he only had a 6th grade education, he had lots of common sense and a willingness to learn and to excel. Walter spent his early years working on his father’s farm. He took great pride in driving his father to town and to visit family and friends.
At the age of 21, Walter married Emma Ruth Moore. They later moved to Norfolk, VA, where they lived the remainder of their life. Four children were born out of this union: Iris, Brenda, Walter Barnette and Audrey. After working for several companies, Walter found his niche at Sovereign/Nations/Bank of America. Walter started worked at the bank as an elevator operator. When this job function was no longer needed, he began to work in the mail room. He had a high regard for his job and took his work very seriously. Walter worked at the bank until he retired at the age of 65.
Walter always enjoyed cooking. He made the absolute best chopped bar-b-que. After retirement, he took great pride in perfecting his culinary skills. He believed that he was master chef and could cook anything! He would cook for anyone, as long as they complimented him on how good his food was. In addition to cooking, Walter loved to garden. Walter was a very generous person - sharing his vegetables with his family, friends, neighbors and even his Doctor. Committed to being informed, Walter read the paper daily. If he did not know the definition of a word, he would find its definition.
Walter was an active member of the Berkley Civic League. He was also the neighborhood socialite. He enjoyed hosting his friends and neighbors on the front porch or in his “nest” (mancave). Walter was quite the comedian and one who was never at a loss for words. All who knew him knew he had an affinity for nice clothes and his Stacy Adams shoes.
Walter lived a good and long life. His endured a short illness prior to his passing. He was looking forward to meeting his first born, Iris on Heaven’s porch.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents, 16 siblings and his daughter- Iris Perkins. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Emma; children, Brenda, Walter Barnette (Angela) and Audrey (McKinley); seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; two sisters, Sadie Noble and Hattie Powell (Rudolph); one brother, Julian (Easter) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.