Julian "Jude" Walker Memorial Football Endowed Scholarship

Julian ‘’Jude" Walker was born on September 3, 1919, son of George Washington and Mary Frances Walker of Conroe, Texas. Julian grew up on a dairy farm and learned many life lessons while helping with the chores of milking cows and farming. After graduating from high school in Edinburg, Texas, Julian attended and played football at Texas A&M University, Allen Military Academy, and Sam Houston State. Julian was a letterman at Sam Houston State in 1940 and 1941. Julian left Sam Houston State in 1942 to join the Navy and serve his country in World War II. He was a torpedo bomber pilot on the USS Wasp and piloted many successful missions in the Pacific. He was awarded various medals for his service, including the Distinguished Flying Cross. At the conclusion of the war, Julian returned home and worked on a surveying crew and became interested in geology. He then went on to attend the University of Texas and obtained a degree in geology. Julian went to work for Marathon Oil Company and worked in various locations. In 2015, Julian was identified as the oldest living Bearkat Football player as part of the “100th Season of Bearkat Football” campaign. He was featured in a campaign video and was recognized at the 2015 Bearkat Athletics Auction. Julian passed away on September 30, 2015. He loved people and greeted everyone with a smile. All who knew him would say he was one of the kindest persons they knew. In his later years, one of his favorite ways to enjoy life was sitting outside in the sunshine and listening to the birds. He will be remembered as a loving husband and father, and someone who cherished his family, friends, and his country. To memorialize Julian’s legacy and to recognize those receiving this scholarship, the Donor will provide a plaque with nameplates engraved to recognize annual recipients. The Julian “Jude” Walker Memorial Football Scholarship Endowment plaque will be displayed in a location with the Department of Athletics selected by the Director of the Department of Athletics.