David Walker was born on March 20, 1958, in Chester, Pennsylvania, to Alberta Walker Brown Ellis and Sherman David Haywood. Raised in Lincoln Park Homes, David was affectionately known by his childhood nickname, “Lip.” He was the oldest of his mother’s twelve children and the youngest of his father’s four.
From a young age, David was ambitious and passionate about success. With an infectious smile and a warm spirit, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met. David was known for his charming, caring, and silly personality. He had a brilliant mind, especially when it came to anything mathematical. David was not only intelligent but also remarkably skilled—whether it was plumbing, working hard, or fashion. His style was always top tier and on point, a true reflection of his attention to detail and pride in how he carried himself, a man of impeccable style.
David attended trade school for plumbing and went on to become a respected colleague with Shared Linen of Sentara and was also a vital team player with Vico Construction. He was a true jack of all trades— always networking, building, or solving problems—and excelled at everything he touched. Above all, David was a devoted and loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, colleague, and friend. A true family man, he always worked hard to provide a good life for those he loved.
David built a life of love and partnership with his wife, Shirley Mae Cook, whom he married on April 14, 2000. He was a caring father to his sons and daughters-in-law: David Scarbor, Henry Hunter (Simone Hunter), and Milton Cook (Nicole Cook). He was deeply committed to leaving behind a legacy that his family could be proud of.
David was predeceased by his mother, Alberta Walker Brown Ellis; his father, Sherman David Haywood; his uncle, Joseph Walker Sr.; and his brothers Kerry C. Haywood, Ernie J. Haywood, John A. Haywood, and Ronald T. Brown Sr.
David will be lovingly remembered for his goofy personality and contagious smile. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Shirley Cook; sons David Scarbor, Henry Hunter, and Milton Cook; daughters-in-law Simone Hunter and Nicole Cook; and his siblings: Sandra Gooden, Edna Dukes, James Brown, Joann Elliott, Clarence Brown, Diane Simon, Edna Outten and Rosetta Carr. He is also survived by his brothers- and sisters-in-law Jaqueline Haywood, Eugene Dukes Sr., and Michael Simon; uncles Eddie Lee Walker and Harold Walker; aunt Arler Toller; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends who loved him dearly.
A Service will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 1pm in Greater Mount Zion COGIC, 3100 Deep Creek Blvd Portsmouth VA 23701.
A viewing will be held on Friday from 4pm to 7pm in Steele-Bullock Chapel.
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