Tradis Walker Jr. —lively, full of spunk, and always the heartbeat of every room—danced his way through 82 remarkable years before saying goodbye for now on Friday, May 30, 2025. Though his passing after a courageous battle with cirrhosis of the liver and kidney issues fills us with sorrow, we celebrate a life lived with joy, energy, and a contagious vibe that touched everyone who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy woven with resilience, groundbreaking achievements, immense generosity, and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit.

Born on March 23, 1943, in Carthage, Arkansas (30 mins from Malvern,Arkansas) Tradis was the son of the late Connie Mae Smith Crain (January 29, 2018) and Trodis Walker (January 29,1943), his father having passed before his birth. Tradis and his brother John attended "Malvern Colored Elementary School" which was later renamed Tuggle Elementary School and "Wilson High School" along with their cousins Marie Langston, Karl Smith, James Mitchell and Ethel Mitchell. His brother John passed away at the young age of 29 (1974) post Vietnam from agent orange. From his early years in Malvern, Tradis possessed a determined spirit that would define his journey. On June 10, 1962, Tradis moved to Chicago, Illinois, seeking new paths and opportunities while everything around him was changing.

In Chicago, Tradis etched his name in history by becoming one of the first few Black bus drivers for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) near Cicero. This was a monumental achievement at a time when racial barriers severely restricted such roles for African Americans. His position with the CTA was not merely a job; it was a courageous step forward, challenging the status quo and opening doors for others who would follow. He drove those city routes with professionalism and pride, representing a quiet yet powerful force for change.

His strong work ethic and business savvy were evident in all he did, from his time with "Hawaiian Eye" to owning "The Lions Den" and "Every Hour Grocery Store" on Chicago's West Side. His impressive track record led to a pivotal opportunity in the 1980s when Phillip DeGeratto Sr. brought him on to manage his popular "Buddy Bears" grocery stores. This professional relationship blossomed into a lifelong friendship with Phillip Sr.'s son, Phillip Jr. (Regina), and Traverstein Pride.

While building his career in the Windy City, Tradis never lost sight of what mattered most: his family. Each year, as summer began, he would first visit his late mother-in-law, Miss Areather Williams (2006), and her sister, Miss Mattie Bell (2017). Then, he'd scoop up his nine children at midnight and make the 10 hour, overnight journey straight to Malvern, Arkansas, ensuring they always remembered their hometown roots. There, the children would spend their entire summer under the loving care of his mother. Those Malvern summers became a cherished tradition, a time filled with learning, adventure, and so much joy that some of the children often found it hard to leave and return to Chicago.

Tradis was a man of profound generosity. He believed in lifting others, and if he possessed the means to help someone, just like his mom, he would do so without hesitation. This inherent kindness was a cornerstone of his character.

He was also known by many as "Tray Smooth," a nod to his charismatic personality, his sharp style, and his ability to engage with everyone he met. While he enjoyed life and was known for his love of dancing and entertaining, it was his genuine connection with people that truly defined him.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Tradis consistently sought new ventures and innovative ways to serve his community. This entrepreneurial drive saw him establish his final business in Malvern, called "Sure Way Taxi". He poured his energy into this service, ensuring reliable transportation for his customers day and night, always ready to personally ensure their needs were met.

Tradis shared a significant chapter of his life in marriage with Miss Juanita and their union blessed them with a large and loving family. Though their paths as husband and wife diverged, their connection endured in its own unique way. He never remarried, and it became a long-standing, affectionate joke of his – often delivered with that signature charming smile – that if he ever became a millionaire again, his first act would be to "get his wife back." It seems Tradis may have had the last loving laugh on this one, as some of his final words whispered to family were, "We're all millionaires!" Perhaps he was finally making his playful bid, or more likely, reminding us all of the true wealth found in family, shared history, and a life brimming with unforgettable moments.

He is survived by his ex-wife, Juanita Moore-Wells; his cherished daughters: Eunice, Micole Walker-Hicks, Monique Hobbs (Bryan); and his beloved sons: Tracy Dwight Walker, Dewayne Walker (Creshon), DeShaun Walker, Deamone Walker (June 19, 2007), Roman Walker and Demetrious Walker. His indelible mark on the world continues through his 24 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He will also be remembered with love and respect by his mom's only living sister, Aunt Darris Mitchell, his extended family 20 (cool brothers-in-law and beautiful sisters-in-law), dozens of nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, and a wide circle of very close cousins and very loving friends.

Tradis Walker Jr.'s journey was one of purpose, perseverance, and a profound appreciation for life. He navigated challenges with grace and celebrated successes with an infectious spirit. As we mourn his loss, we also honor his request to celebrate life. Let us remember his strength, his pioneering efforts, his dedication to family, and the quiet generosity that defined him. May his memory inspire us to live with similar vigor, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to our own paths.

Whenever we look back on his life, you can bet a grin will spread across our faces as we remember the man who could light up any room—dancing, laughing, and turning every gathering into a celebration -aka- a party! . He didn't just make waves in the world; he made every family moment unforgettable, proving that being the life of the party can actually change lives in the best way possible.

O Captain! My Captain! Walt Whitman

1819 – 1892 O Captain! my Captain! our fearful trip is done, The ship has weather'd every rack, the prize we sought is won, The port is near, the bells I hear, the people all exulting, While follow eyes the steady keel, the vessel grim and daring; But O heart! heart! heart! O the bleeding drops of red, Where on the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead.

O Captain! my Captain! rise up and hear the bells; Rise up- for you the flag is flung- for you the bugle trills, For you bouquets and ribbon'd wreaths- for you the shores a-crowding, For you they call, the swaying mass, their eager faces turning; Here Captain! dear father! This arm beneath your head! It is some dream that on the deck, You've fallen cold and dead.

My Captain does not answer, his lips are pale and still, My father does not feel my arm, he has no pulse nor will, The ship is anchor'd safe and sound, its voyage closed and done, From fearful trip the victor ship comes in with object won; Exult O shores, and ring O bells! But I with mournful tread, Walk the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead.

Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors

" The Epitome of Service "

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church

Saturday, June 21, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM 1220 Carmichael Street Malvern, AR 72104 Celebration of Life

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church

Saturday, June 21, 2025

10:30 AM 1220 Carmichael Street Malvern, AR 72104