Sam W. Walker

Sam Wayne Walker, 85, of Astoria, Illinois, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2024, at Mason District Hospital in Havana, Illinois. He was born September 25, 1938, in Benton, Illinois, to Albert and Virginia (Grimes) Walker.

Sam is survived by his daughter, Valerie (Bill) Strayer; daughter-in-law, Debi Walker; grandchildren, Will Strayer, Shelbi Strayer, Courtney Strayer, Taylor Walker; brother, David Luke (Nikki) Walker and his ex-wife, Brenda Walker. He is preceded in death by his parents; son, David Walker; and sister, Nicki Joan.
Sam worked for the State of Illinois in the Department of Public Health for many years. Before that, Sam was the principal of Astoria High School in Astoria, Illinois. Sam loved his family and spending time with his family. He also loved to hunt, and spent much of his time at Anderson Lake.
Cremation rites have been accorded with Hurley Funeral Home in Havana. A burial of his cremated remains will take place at a later date at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton, Illinois.
Memorials in Sam’s name may be made to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in honor of his love of Anderson Lake and the time he and his family spent there. Donations may be made online at the IDNR website or physical donations may be sent to
Office of Grant Management and Assistance
Illinois Wildlife Preservation Fund
One Natural Resources Way
Springfield, Illinois 62702-1271
Please visit hurleyfh.com to view Sam’s online obituary and share memories and condolences with his family.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.