Thomas (Tommy) Hampton Walker, 67, died February 23, 2023, at the woodland Clarkesville home he designed, helped build, and loved for over 30 years. Encircled by his beloved family, including dog Lucy, Tommy passed into eternity as he lived – quietly and with grace.
Born May 12, 1955, lifelong Habersham County resident Tommy Walker made a life with his hands. He collected arrowheads, pocket knives, and bandanas. His legacy is a steadfast work ethic; promises kept personally and professionally, and his two sons, of whom he was so proud. A craftsman and artist, Tommy and his wife, Kathy, owned and operated Cody Road Workshops for 23 years. Tommy was the behind-the-scenes artisan; with Kathy’s support, he was free to simply create beauty. He was also the owner of Georgia Pine Craftsmen and Southern Craftsmen Guild and employed many talented people over the years.
During his 40 years in business, he designed, built, and led the production of more than half a million items – families share meals at tables he created, sleep in beds he hand-crafted, and read beneath light cast by the lamps he made. Beyond showcasing his talent in designing and building furniture, Tommy explored many mediums, often using cast-off parts and metal bits to craft whimsical sculptures. His paintings, featuring vibrant colors and patterns, delight those fortunate to have discovered his gift.
An Eagle Scout at age 16, a lifelong fisherman and outdoorsman, he savored time spent outside, with nature providing much of the inspiration for his life and artistry. A bit of a renaissance man, his keen curiosity often sent him on unexpected journeys, including being left behind on an island in Italy and exploring the shops and side streets in New Orleans. He loved wandering through flea markets and attending auctions, filling up warehouse space with supplies for projects born from his lively imagination. He earned a black belt in karate and Taekwondo during a memorable summer in Key West.
Tommy was a private pilot and owned a small plane based at the Habersham County Airport; he was happy every time he got a chance to fly. Tommy served at the altar at his long-time faith home, Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church, offering communion to several generations of brothers and sisters in Christ. He also served in many volunteer roles at the church, including the wheelchair ramp ministry. Tommy and Kathy were blessed with a grace-filled life over three decades together. They raised their sons, Clayton and Dylan, in Habersham County, cultivating an intimate community of friends who became family. The couple extended abundant hospitality at their Clarkesville home and in St. Simons.
For the past 18 years, Christmas Eve at the Walker home has been a favorite tradition. Despite a diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia several years ago, Tommy continued to bless the people who loved and cared for him, sharing glimpses of the beauty that exists beyond this earthbound life.
At his final Christmas Eve gathering, friends and family formed a prayer circle at his bedside, with those present experiencing a bond of sacred connection.
Preceding him in death are parents H. Brawner and Jenny L. Walker and brother Gary Lyle.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Hearn Walker, and sons, Clayton and Dylan, all of Clarkesville.
He is also survived by sister-in-law Claudia Lyle; nephew David (Michelle); sister-in-law Valerie Lyle; mother-in-law Mary Ann Gibbons; sister-in-law Cindy (Scott) Hall; and brother-in-law Rick (Ann) Hearn.
The family would like to extend gratitude to sweet Shannon, morning Hope, evening Hope and his hospice team of caregivers.
A funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on March 1, 2023, at Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church, with Rev. Doris Graf officiating. Interment will occur at the Chapel of the Holy Cross Cemetery after the service and reception.
The family will greet friends to share memories of Tommy’s life from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the funeral home.
Instead of flowers, the family asks if you wish to honor Tommy’s life and legacy, to do so by donating to Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia, 1085 Rocky Branch Road, Clarkesville, GA 30523.
Arrangements are in the care & professional direction of Hillside Memorial Chapel & Gardens, 5495 Highway 197 South, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523. (706) 754-6256.
