James Hoil Walker, age 83, former co-owner of General Trucking and co-founder of Haulers Insurance, and resident of Columbia, died January 3, 2021 at Maury Regional Medical Center.

The Lascassas, Tennessee native was the son of the late Charles Hoil Walker and Annie Lucille Walker Powell. He was a 1954 graduate of Hay Long High School and attended Middle Tennessee State College.

Besides his business interest, one of his favorite pastimes was his involvement with Tennessee Walking Horses, including his co-ownership of 1993 World Grand Championship “The Touch.” He was subsequently inducted The Celebration Hall of Fame in 2008.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Woody Walker, to whom he was married for 59 years. His survivors include his second wife, Diane Jones Walker; daughter, Dr. Lottie Walker; son, Cliff (Rhonda) Walker; grandchildren, Emma Kate (Kyle) Kilgore, George Walker, and Walker Jones; stepdaughters, Lauren (Jonathan) Stewart and Luci (Will) Boshers; step grandchildren, Chaslyn Stewart, Bentley Boshers, Paitley Craig, Baylor Bosher, and Tessa Stewart; and special friend, Faye and Tommy Turrentine.

Due to COVID-19, a private interment will be held. Oakes & Nichols Funeral Directors are assisting the family with arrangements.

The family suggests memorials to the American Heart Association, 1818 Patterson Street, Nashville, TN 37203 or a charity of one’s choice.

The family would like to express a special thanks to the caregivers who tended to the needs of Mr. Walker and his family over the years.