City Rededicates Street Honoring Linden Leader, George M. Walker Jr.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, July 23, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT:
Beth Berkemer
(614) 565-6767 cell
EABerkemer@columbus.gov

City of Columbus rededicates street in honor of beloved Linden leader, George M. Walker Jr.


Columbus, OH—The City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods announces the rededication of a street sign in honor of George M. Walker Jr., a cherished and influential figure in the Linden community for many decades. The street sign for 23rd Avenue, at the corner of Cleveland Avenue, will be officially converted to "George M. Walker Jr. Way".

The rededication ceremony will take place:

Friday, July 25, 2025
10-11 a.m.
1910 Cleveland Ave.
Columbus, OH 43211

“Mr. Walker embodied the true spirit of community leadership and genuine care for his neighbors,” said Kym Douglas, Director City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods. “His passing marked a significant loss for the community he tirelessly served. Today we gather to recognize him in a special way.”

A proud retired serviceman from the U.S. Army, Walker Jr. had a distinguished career at St. Stephen’s Community House where his work profoundly impacted countless lives. His unwavering commitment to the greater Linden area was evident through his active participation in numerous organizations including the South Linden Area Commission, Greater Linden Advisory Council, Community Block Watch Alliance and the Greater Linden Business Network. He consistently worked to strengthen and uplift his treasured neighborhood.

Walker's dedication to service and community engagement was further exemplified by his past affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the Knights of Columbus, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and the American Legion, Post #770.

His passion for Linden's future was particularly evident through his dedicated involvement as a member of both the 2018 and 2023 One Linden Plan Advisory Committees, where his insights were instrumental in shaping the community’s vision for progress.

"The Department of Neighborhoods and South Linden community are immensely grateful for Commissioner Walker’s decades of dedicated service to the Linden community," said De Lena Scales, Linden Neighborhood Program Specialist with the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods. "Mr. Walker’s tireless efforts and the positive influence he had on Linden students, parents and businesses are to be celebrated. His presence at Linden McKinley STEM Academy and contributions to the South Linden Area Commission will be greatly missed. We are honored to have had Mr. Walker as a partner in our efforts to build stronger neighborhoods. His legacy of service and dedication will long be remembered in Linden."

The rededication ceremony will include remarks from community leaders and family members, culminating in the unveiling of the new street sign by Mrs. Walker and children.

Special speakers:

  • Dr. Charles M. Dobbins Jr., New Season Christian Ministries
  • Kym Douglas, Director of Department of Neighborhoods
  • Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, City of Columbus
  • Emmanuel Remy, Columbus City Council
  • Ralph Carter, South Linden Area Commission
  • Jaionsa Walker and Janaya Walker, granddaughters of Mr. George M. Walker Jr.
  • Mrs. Beverly Walker, Joycelyn Walker and Mr. George M. Walker III, wife and children of Mr. George M. Walker Jr.

All members of the media and community are invited to attend this meaningful event to honor the legacy of George M. Walker Jr.

NOTE: Photos, graphics, interviews and B-roll may be available upon request.

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Department of Neighborhoods, City of Columbus
The Department of Neighborhoods works from a foundation of devoted residents, committed neighborhood leaders and a dedicated City workforce to resolve community concerns and tap into neighborhood potential, helping to build a stronger, more equitable Columbus. As the “front door” to the city, the Department of Neighborhoods empowers residents, responds to their needs and protects their rights.

 

 

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