Trent G. Walker

In Loving Memory of Trent Walker 1936 – 2026 Trent Walker was born on August 2, 1936, in New London, North Carolina, to Lucille Walker and Nathaniel Shadd. The youngest of two boys, he was energetic, adventurous, and deeply influenced by his grandfather, his aunts, and his big brother, Samuel Wesley, with whom he shared a close bond. He attended Mary Potter High School, where he participated in sports, played in the band, and sang in the chorus. Through those early years, he developed a love for the outdoors, music, farming, and hard work—values that would guide him his life. Trent proudly served his country in both the United States Air Force and the United States Army for over nine years and was honorably discharged in 1965. During his military service, he held several jobs, played in the Europe Football League, and performed with the Trumpet Ensemble at Lackland Air Force Base. He liked to share the story of singing with the Del Vikings during rehearsals on a military base before they became famous. A serious football injury nearly cost him his leg, but treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center saved it—a blessing he never forgot. Before moving to Washington, DC, Trent became the proud father of his eldest daughter, Debra Chapman, whom he loved dearly. After his military service, Trent settled in Washington, DC, where he met the love of his life, Gloria Jones. They were married on October 10, 1965, and together built a stable home and loving family. Their union was blessed with three children: Tonette, Glynda, and Trent Gregory. Known for his strong work ethic, Trent spent the majority of his career working at the health clinic on the DC General Hospital campus, where he advanced to the position of laboratory technician supervisor before retiring in 1989. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit, and owned Trent's Pest Control for many years. Never one to sit still, after retirement he operated a food truck, worked at local golf courses, and served as a Metrobus driver for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, where he earned safety awards during his tenure. A lifelong athlete, Trent enjoyed playing various sports. He exceled in tennis, bowling, and golf, earning numerous awards and trophies throughout the years. Traveling the country to participate in “The Brothers” Golf tournaments brought him joy. He especially enjoyed teaching others and sharing his love of sports with family, friends, and anyone willing to learn. Trent was a devoted husband, father, and provider who loved his family deeply. He enjoyed frequent trips to North Carolina with Gloria and took pride in caring for those he loved. His children remember hot breakfasts, high speed rides to school, family worship, and the life lessons he often shared. He taught them to be independent, fearless, prayerful, and always united. One of his favorite sayings was, “A family that prays together stays together.” His generosity extended far beyond his home. Trent and Gloria frequently visited the sick and shut-in, delivered food to those in need, and offered comfort to anyone facing difficult times. Active in the Peppermill Village Civic Association, he advocated for improvements in his community, including efforts that contributed to the installation of a traffic signal on Central Avenue to improve pedestrian safety. Trent loved the Lord and enjoyed sharing his faith with others. Some people affectionately referred to him as “Preacher Man” because he was passionate about encouraging people to stop smoking and to pray. Many later credited his encouragement and prayers for helping them succeed. Trent gave his life to Christ at a young age, was baptized in El Paso, Texas in 1963, and remained devoted to his faith throughout his life. For more than sixty years, Trent was a faithful member of Dupont Park Seventh-day Adventist Church. He served in numerous capacities, including usher, Church Aide Society member, Community Services volunteer, and as an active participant in the 50 Plus Club. He served as a deacon for more than thirty years. He loved Sabbath School and remained engaged in church life until his health declined. Trent was a remarkable man whose determination, resilience, and faith carried him from humble beginnings to a life filled with purpose and service. He was hardworking, outspoken, opinionated, and full of laughter. He never stopped learning or trying new things. In his later years, he learned to play pool, sang more boldly, and even began teaching himself to play the piano. In the most recent years, he was known to break into a line from “I Love the Lord,” one of his favorite songs by Wintley Phipps. No matter the occasion, it was his comfort and his testimony. Most of all, Trent never met a stranger. Whether through a smile, a handshake, a hug, or an encouraging word, he made people feel seen and valued. He loved life, cherished his family and friends, and remained strong in spirit even through illness. On May 25, 2026, Trent peacefully departed this life in his sleep at home in Fort Washington, Maryland. He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Samuel Wesley Walker; and his son, Trent Gregory Walker, who passed in 1993. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of sixty years, Gloria Jones Walker; his daughters, Deborah Chapman, Tonette Walker, and Glynda Walker; his grandson, Trent Gregory Walker, Jr.; an adopted grandson, Trevon Heard; two sisters-in-law, Promila Walker and Barbara Annette Jones; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. His life was a testament to hard work, strong faith, and the belief that with God, all things are possible. Trent Walker was Servant of God, and a Friend to Man.

Tributes

Trent G. Walker

August 2, 1936 - May 25, 2026