Mr. James (Jim) E. Walker, Jr., age 77 of Ellijay, GA, passed away December 1, 2024 at his residence at Manor Lake in Ellijay.

Jim was born in 1947 in Philadelphia, PA to the late James E. Walker Sr. and the late Cedelia House Walker. He graduated from Avondale High School in Decatur, GA and went on to obtain his degree from Yale University. After college, Jim and his wife Pat embarked on adventures in the Western United States, working as self-described "fruit tramps" picking apples in Oregon. They settled in Ellijay, GA, where they built their hand-crafted log cabin and made their home for the next 50 years.

In his early years in Ellijay, Jim worked various jobs to support his family, including building trails at Georgia State Parks such as Amicalola Falls, Fort Mountain, and Cloudland Canyon. He found his true calling in 1985 when he began work as a scientific and technical translator, a career that would span 30 years until his retirement. He was a certified member of the American Translators' Association and remained active in the organization throughout his career.  He was also an active leader in the community, particularly with Boy Scout Troop 402 of Ellijay.  In his late career and retirement he was active with Georgia ForestWatch and also enjoyed recreational tree climbing.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (Pat) Madsen Walker of Ellijay, GA; sons and daughters-in-law, Josh (Lori LaRue) Walker and Caleb (Amy) Walker; and grandson, Finnegan.

To honor Mr. Walker's wishes, he will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay is entrusted with these arrangements.