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Arkansas lawmaker, civil rights legend John Walker dies at 82

According to Arkansas Business, State Rep. John W. Walker, a Little Rock lawyer and civil rights legend, has died.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark —

According to Arkansas Business, State Rep. John W. Walker, a Little Rock lawyer and civil rights legend, has died. He was 82. 

His law firm, John W. Walker Law, confirmed his death to Arkansas Business. The news was first reported by the Arkansas Times blog. Walker died at home.

Walker is best known to many for his involvement in the long-running Little Rock School District desegregation case, but he handled many others involving racial discrimination and other civil rights violations.

Rutledge issued the following statement after the announcement of the death of long-time civil rights activist and Arkansas Representative John Walker.

Multiple Arkansas lawmakers have issued statements after the announcement of Walker's death:

Governor Asa Hutchinson 

“It is with much sadness that Susan and I learned of the passing of Rep. John Walker. For years, I followed his work as a civil rights attorney and advocate. For the last five years I have had the opportunity to see John ably and passionately represent his constituents as a member of the General Assembly. John always was a gentleman and proved every day that you can get along with people even though there may be disagreements. He worked tirelessly for the causes he championed and for the people he represented. We will miss his service to our state. Our prayers are with his family and loved ones."

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge

“I was saddened to learn of the passing of Representative Walker,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Representative Walker was a tireless advocate on behalf of his clients and constituents, leaving a strong and lasting legacy with the State. He was also a man of deep faith, and I pray that faith gives comfort to his loved ones during this difficult time.”

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Rep. Walker’s funeral plans, per the funeral home Ruffin & Jarrett:

  • Lie in the Arkansas State Capitol Thursday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • family visitation Thursday 6-8 at Wesley Chapel United Methodist at Philander Smith
  • Funeral Friday 11 a.m. at St. Mark Baptist Church on 12th Street in Little Rock

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