One Day at a Time: Honoring the Life of Reverend Dr. Thomas L. Walker

On Sunday, September 14, 2025, Reverend Dr. Thomas L. Walker, aged 77, passed away peacefully at his residence in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. His departure leaves a void in our community, but his legacy of faith, service, and advocacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Reverend Walker’s journey in ministry began early. Born in Edgecombe County, he answered the call to preach at the age of 22. He pursued formal theological education, earning a Bachelor of Theology from Shaw Divinity School, advanced degrees from the Eastern North Carolina Theological Institute, and ultimately a Doctor of Humane Letters from United Christian College.

Throughout more than five decades of public life, Pastor Walker wore many hats: preacher, pastor, songwriter, community leader, and advocate. He achieved fame in gospel music for his rendition of “One Day at a Time,” a song he popularized within the African American gospel community in 1979. His musical contributions also included recordings as a soloist and with various choirs under the AIR label in the 1980s.

But his influence extended far beyond the pulpit. After a battle with prostate cancer, he transformed his personal challenge into a public mission. He authored Brother to Brother – You Don’t Have to Die of Prostate Cancer and established Project EMPOWER, a program promoting men’s health awareness across the nation. His work brought free prostate cancer screenings to thousands of men who otherwise might never have had access. He was also the force behind various local initiatives: voter registration drives, affordable housing efforts, and broader community outreach programs.

His life and service were honored in many ways. Among these recognitions, Reverend Walker received the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine. In 2023, the North Carolina Board of Transportation named the NC 97 overpass in Rocky Mount the Reverend Thomas L. Walker Bridge, a fitting tribute to a man who bridged gaps in society.

At his funeral, civic leaders, faith leaders, and community members came together to celebrate his life and legacy. Their tributes echoed a shared sentiment: we mourn a devoted shepherd but also celebrate a life lived fully in service to others. (See Rocky Mount Telegram)" (Note: details from that article were referenced; source access was limited.)

Reverend Walker is survived by his family, friends, congregants, and a host of protégés and admirers whose lives he touched. His final resting place will be in the Buster and Bonnie Family Garden in Nashville, North Carolina, following a life celebration held at the Rocky Mount Event Center.

As we reflect on his legacy, it is fitting to remember his favorite refrain: “One day at a time.” In times of sorrow, challenge, or loss, may we carry forward his spirit of faith, perseverance, and community. His footsteps blaze a path for us to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to a charity of your choice, or to an organization dear to Reverend Walker’s mission — for example, in support of Project EMPOWER (men’s health awareness), local community outreach, or your favorite faith-based nonprofit. These gifts will carry forward his legacy of service, care, and advocacy.