WALTER BOONE JR.
Walter Boone Jr. was born on Jan. 3, 1929, in Olanta. He completed his earthly journey on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2018.
Walter received his primary education in Clarendon County School District. He worked for the City of Sumter as a heavy equipment operator and retired with the distinction of manager, after serving for 32 years. Walter joined Mechanicsville United Methodist Church at an early age, where he served as church trustee, church stewart, church custodian, gospel choir president and church musician. Walter traveled throughout the Southeast, sharing his renowned musical gifts through quartet gospel groups such as the Golden Gates, Doc Louis and the Saint Matthew Gospel Singers; singing his popular song "Heavy Load." Walter shared his musical gifts with the church and was known for sitting in his chair by the door playing his guitar, often greeting members as they passed his way with a kind handshake, a smile and an occasional grin.
Walter was known for his quietness but bold spirit, especially when it came to music. He always strived to maintain peace and order in every situation. He loved to laugh and often found something worth smiling about throughout his day. Walter took the time to visit the sick and support charities such as those for cancer research. Walter was a member of the Masonic Order and dedicated his life to the Oswego and the Sumter community.
Walter leaves behind: his loving wife of 33 years, Mattie Elizabeth Boone; 10 children, Mary L. Philip of Richmond, Virginia, Catherine Jacobs of Tallahassee, Florida, Mary Eaddy (Tony), Harold W. Boone (Carrie), Hillard L. Boone (Rolina), Herbert L. Boone (Jacquetta), George Washington (Martha) and Richard Washington (Sandra), all of Sumter, Booker T. Washington (Jeannie) of New Castle, Delaware, and Richard L. Boone of Rock Hill; two sisters, Evelynia Johnson of Florida and Mary Douglas of Sumter; one brother, Coelle Boone of Clewiston, Florida; an assemblage of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; a special grandson of the home, Booker T. Washington IV; and a special friend, Robert Cook.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Walter Boone Sr. and Essie L. Dix Boone; four brothers, Earle Boone, Leroy Boone, William C. Boone and Roger Boone; and four sisters, Clara Alleyne, Elizabeth Boone, Bonnie Boone and Barbara Wilson.
The family is receiving relatives and friends at the home, 730 Ripper Lane, Sumter.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday at Mechanicsville United Methodist Church, 184 Lake Ashwood Road, Sumter, with the Rev. Annie H. Sistruck, pastor, eulogist.
The remains will be placed in the church at 10 a.m.
The funeral procession will leave at 10:30 a.m. from the home.
Burial will be at Mechanicsville United Methodist Church Cemetery.
These services have been entrusted to the management and staff of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter.
Online memorial messages may be sent to the family at williamsfuneralhome@sc.rr.com.
Visit us on the web at www.williamsfuneralhomeinc.com.