Obituary: John Walding

John “Johnny” Walding, born June 18, 1949, in Ensley, Ala., passed away February 6. He was 76 years old.

Walding graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. He went on to own and operate Walding Pumps LLC, a company he founded in 1972, which specializes in dredge pumps. He was also a key figure in the establishment of Townley Engineering.

A man driven by faith, Walding was a proud member of Ensley Baptist Church, Wylam Presbyterian Church and Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in his lifetime. He was chosen to be a member of Outstanding Young Men of America in his youth and was a past member of the Civitan Club. Walding loved to spend time outdoors hunting, camping and fishing, and according to his official obituary, he was known by loved ones to have “a unique appreciation for kaleidoscopes.” His family described him as a man who “carried himself with humility and kindness.”

Walding is survived by his wife Amy, first wife Diane, sister Christine and children Michael, Diane and Blake, as well as several nephews and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Douglas.

A celebration of life ceremony was held on February 12 at Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in Leeds, Ala.