RIP: Rev. Dr. Thomas L. Walker (“One Day at a Time”)

JGM was saddened to learn of yet another passing in the gospel music family – Reverend Dr. Thomas L. Walker of “One Day at a Time” fame.

Here is the obituary from the H. D. Pope Funeral Home website:

Rocky Mount, North Carolina,

Reverend Dr. Thomas L. Walker, 77, transitioned on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at his residence.

Reverend Walker devoted more than five decades to preaching, pastoring, songwriting, and community leadership. A native of Edgecombe County, he began preaching at the age of 22, earned a Bachelor of Theology from Shaw Divinity School, advanced degrees from the Eastern North Carolina Theological Institute, and a Doctor of Humane Letters from United Christian College. His ministry included the beloved gospel song “One Day at a Time” and service as a field representative for Congresswoman Eva Clayton. His leadership was recognized with numerous honors, including the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

After overcoming prostate cancer, Reverend Walker turned his journey into advocacy, authoring Brother to Brother – You Don’t Have to Die of Prostate Cancer and launching Project EMPOWER to promote men’s health nationwide. He also founded organizations dedicated to voter registration, housing, and community outreach. In 2023, the NC Board of Transportation honored his legacy by naming the NC 97 overpass in Rocky Mount the Reverend Thomas L. Walker Bridge. His life remains a lasting tribute to faith, service, and hope for generations to come.

JGM NOTE: Dr. Walker also inspired the creation of what became known as the North Carolina Community Choir. He recorded several albums, as a soloist and with various choirs and ensembles, for the AIR label during the 1980s. Dr. Walker popularized the Marijohn Wilkin – Kris Kristofferson country gospel song, “One Day at a Time,” in the African American gospel music community with his 1979 hit rendition.