Walter Gordon Jr., age 70, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of August 14, 2026.

Known affectionately as “Jr.,” Walter was the devoted husband of Linda Dale Gordon and the best Husband, Daddy, and Poppy his family could ever have hoped for. He was a loving father to Jennifer Long and her husband, David, and Mary Beth Simmons; a cherished Poppy to Lydia Long, Zane Long, Maura Simmons, Flannery Simmons, and Maeve Simmons; and a father figure to Richard Tyree. He was the son of Walter and Emma Gordon, who preceded him in death.

For more than 50 years, Jr. owned and operated Gordon Farms and Walter Gordon Grading and Excavating. He was widely loved and respected as a businessman, family man, and friend. Before retirement, he rose before the sun to begin his days on the farm, and during harvest season he often worked until sunset. He trusted God to provide through the labor of his hands and through the land he was blessed to tend with love and care.

Strong, courageous, admired, and trusted by many, Jr. had a commanding presence. In his younger days, he could be fierce, but those who truly knew him understood that beneath the exterior of a bear was the heart of a teddy bear—gentle, generous, loyal, and deeply loving.

Throughout his years as a farmer and business owner, Jr. mentored many young people. By his words and, more importantly, by the way he lived, he taught the value of faith, family, hard work, and community. Many of the boys he guided grew into fine men, carrying forward the lessons, confidence, and character he helped instill in them.

Jr.’s greatest joy and proudest legacy were his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and each one held a unique and cherished place in his heart. His love, strength, wisdom, and steady presence shaped the lives of his children and grandchildren, and the impact of his life will continue through them and through the many people he encouraged, supported, and mentored.

Walter Gordon Jr. will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a man of faith, a devoted and loving husband, the best Daddy and Poppy, a trusted friend, and a pillar of his community. His was a life of purpose, service, and enduring love—and his legacy will live on for generations.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Parrish Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Free Will Baptist Children's Home.