Obituary of Phillip Vernal Walton

In Loving Memory of Phillip Vernal Walton 

(February 27, 1963 – September 24, 2023) 

Spot Bay, Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands – Burleson, Texas 

Phillip Vernal Walton's life was a testament to love, service, and faith. Born on February 27, 1963, in Spot Bay, Cayman Brac, to Levi Walton and Angelita Bodden, Phillip's journey of selfless and tireless devotion began early in life. 

In 1977, at 14, Phillip embarked on a transformative journey when he transferred from the tranquil Cayman Islands to Laurelbrook Academy in Dayton, Tennessee. Upon graduating in 1981, he continued his education at Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, Texas. There, he met the love of his life, Donna Durichek, in the Fall of 1981. Their two hearts intertwined, and on July 29, 1984, they exchanged vows at the Fort Worth First Seventh-day Adventist Church. 

Phillip's dedication to education was evident as he returned to Laurelbrook Academy for the 1985-87 school years, serving as boys' dean, assistant registrar, and biology teacher.  

Returning to Texas, the family lived in the Waco area for ten years, primarily doing EMS work. Returning to Fort Worth, Texas, Phillip continued in the medical field in various roles within doctors' offices, including management, phlebotomy, and radiology. Phillip's impact on healthcare extended to his instrumental role in launching CareNow Clinics across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. 

Phillip was involved with several local churches and community activities as an ordained elder, head deacon, and willing handyman. His hands were skilled in assisting youth in Pathfinders and building birdhouses for kid's events. Additionally, he used his medical training to provide first-aid support for various church events. 

One of Phillip's deepest passions was sharing God's love with the next generation. His commitment to youth ministries and support for local schools knew no bounds. He served as school board chairman, school handyman, and chapel speaker. His role as Pathfinder director and assistant area coordinator underscored his dedication to nurturing young souls. Phillip's love for children was expressed through his endearing habit of dressing up as biblical characters while sharing stories of faith. 

Phillip Walton's legacy lives on through his beloved family. He is survived by his loving spouse, Donna Walton, and their cherished daughters, Patricia Westcott, her husband, Ben Westcott, and their children Aiden and Rylan, as well as Donita Avila, her husband, Joe Avila, and their children Little Joe, Angela, and Sofia. Phillip is survived by a brother, Robin Walton, and sisters, Cherise Girdhari and Julie Hurlston, along with numerous nieces and nephews.  

Beyond his roles as a loving husband, father, and dedicated professional, Phillip was a man of diverse interests. Woodworking, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, photography, and camping brought him joy and tranquility in his free time. 

As we remember Phillip, let us draw inspiration from a cherished verse of his, Isaiah 40:30-31: 

"Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the Lord, Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint." 

A memorial service to celebrate his life is scheduled for October 7 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Crowley Seventh-day Adventist Church. Located at 3200 FM 1187 Crowley, Texas 76028. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to Fort Worth Adventist Junior Academy, a place that held a special place in Phillip’s heart. 

The family would like to extend its deepest thanks to Wings Over Hospice and Martin Thompson & Son Funeral Home for their care of Phillip and our family during this time.