Charles Walker Obituary in Steelton at Major H. Winfield Funeral Home

Obituary For Charles Walker

Charles Benjamin Walker “Bill” was born in York, Pennsylvania to the late Benjamin F. Sexton, Jr. of Bamberg, SC and the late Ruth M. Walker Dixon of Bamberg, SC.

He entered into eternal rest on Friday, December 30, 2022 after a bout from a long-term illness. He was surrounded by his immediate family.

Charles received his formal education in York City Schools and graduated in 1957 from William Penn Senior High School and attended York College of Pennsylvania. After graduating from high school, he worked at Cole Steel. In 1966, he began employment at Met-Ed/FirstEnergy as a Dispatch Clerk in the Line Department and he retired in April 2005 following 39 years of service.

He was an active member of Bethlehem Baptist Church and served on the Board of Trustees. With his tenor voice and his love for gospel music he became a member of Jewel Tones Gospel Group under the direction of his great uncle, the late Charles H. Washington.

Charles started his career as a cameraman at WSBA-TV/, channel 43 in the early 70s. After completing his certification with the FCC Third Class Radio Operator Licensing Board in Philadelphia, PA, he began his career as a part-time News Announcer and Disc Jockey with WSBA RADIO/910. This was no small accomplishment as Charles was the first African American Radio personality the station ever had. He was the longest part-time radio announcer who was known as the iconic” Beautiful Bill Walker” hosting the Saturday night Soul and Jazz shows as well as Sunday morning Gospel show. For many years he covered York City School Board meetings, York City Council meetings and newsworthy city events. During his time at WSBA Charles hosted his own talk show and later co-host a morning talk show with Mark McKenzie and Gary Sutton. Following his retirement, he continued to work part-time at WellSpan Health as a Technician I Courier until his second retirement in 2014.

His footprint will forever be etched in the city of York, PA as the first African American City Controller appointed by York City Council on January 22, 2002.

Charles was an active member of his community. He volunteered countless hours and served on different community boards. He was often recognized for his volunteer service throughout the city.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his close cousins/siblings, Doretha McDaniel, Naomi Smith, Elizabeth Gassoway, Mary Burt and Charles Washington, Jr. and Charles is survived by his wife, Diana L. McDaniel Walker of 53 years; three beautiful children, Nicole E. Walker Parks (Carroll Parks), Alecia E. Walker Glover (late Marino Glover) and Brett C. Walker (Felecia Miller); his beloved grandchildren, Noah C. Glover, Saniyah B. Miller Walker, Gavin J. Walker, Leah E. Glover and Jamin A. Glover; one brother, Stanley Sexton of York, PA; ten sisters, Delores Dixon of Philadelphia, Corliss Hawk of Delaware, PA, Bertha Kennedy of York, PA, Barbara Sexton Johnson of York, PA, Mildred Sexton Proctor of York, PA, Rita Sexton Walker of York, PA, Christine Sexton McGee of Chandler, AZ, Doris Sexton Harris of Amherst, MA, Geraldine Sexton Jones of Springfield, MA and Elaine Sexton of Harrisburg, PA; one sister-in-law, Eleanor McDaniel of Ormond Beach, FL; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Charles’ life will be celebrated on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary of his church, Bethlehem Baptist Church, 474 South Pershing Ave., York, PA with viewing from 8:30 AM until 10:00 AM and burial in Susquehanna Memorial Gardens, 250 Chestnut Hill Road, York, PA 17402.

COVID-19 Guidelines will be observed with face masks for all attendees.

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Deborah A Powell sent Celestial Love for Charles Walker - January 06, 2023

Uncle Bill, The last uncle in my life. Thank you for being there for our family, the last of the generation who lead by faith, grace and strength. Deborah Powell

Send flowers for Charles Walker

Stately Croton was sent for Charles Walker - January 05, 2023

Owen Weston sent Sweet Tranquility Basket for Charles Walker - January 04, 2023

Dear Nicole,
May the dawning of each new day bring you closer to a restored peace. We love you.
The Weston Family

Rhonda D Wiley sent Glimmer Spray for Charles Walker - January 04, 2023

Cousin Diana and Family, my heartfelt condolences. Cousin Billy will fondly be remembered. Good people are never forgotten. May the One Above bless and keep you all.
Rhonda D. Wiley

Karen McDaniel sent Loving Respect Bouquet for Charles Walker - January 03, 2023

Aunt Diane, we send our deepest condolences in the loss of our beloved Uncle Bill. He was an inspiration to us, and an example of integrity. He will always be in our memories. David & Karen McDaniel

To Nicole and the Walker family - my sincerest condolences for the loss of your father. May your memories comfort you now and always. Wishing you peace in your time of grief. Sincerely, Ferne Mosley

Nothing compares to the hospitality and inclusion that Uncle Billy showed me. He always showed me loved and made me feel welcome. I will miss him always. Brian McDaniel

Diane and Family. Condolences and Prayers being sent to you during this difficult time. Carol Smith

Carol Smith

I had the opportunity to know Mr. Walker because we live next to each other in the neighborhood. He was a very polite person. He will always pause to talk to us anytime he came out of the house and wave his hands when driving in his car. I will forever miss him for the gentle and polite smile whenever he spoke. May his soul rest in perfect and our condolence to the wife and the rest of the family.
Isaac A.

Nicole, may the fond memories of your father and the peace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ give you comfort. May you be reminded of the love of your father and the perfect love of Jesus to sustain and keep you during this difficult time. I am thinking and praying for you and your family. Kimberly Williams

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Major H. Winfield Funeral Home | Steelton, PA