Walter "Sonny" Decker

Walter Edward “Sonny” Decker, a devoted family man and beloved member of the West Columbia, WV community, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, at the age of 80, surrounded by his loving family at home.

Sonny was preceded in death by his first wife, Tweet; his son, Richard; and his siblings: sisters Doris, Millie, and Icy, and his brother Bub. He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn, with whom he shared 25 wonderful years of marriage.

Sonny is also survived by two sisters: Patty (Rus) of Middleport, OH, and Opal of Henderson, WV, along with many nieces and nephews. He was a proud and loving father to four children: Bruce, Brian (Melinda), Crystal (Tim), and Tammy (Charlie). He was a treasured grandfather to Jordan (Brianna), Tannor (Sarah), Haleigh (Doodle), Sawyer, Savannah, Drew, Trey, Sammantha (JC), Brittney, Jacob (Kenzie), Taylor, Rikki (Eli), Noah (Natalie), and Mason — and a joyful great-grandfather to twelve.

In his later years, Sonny also became the devoted dad to two beloved fur babies, Biscuit and Muffin, who brought him much comfort and companionship. A man of deep and abiding faith, Walter was a devout Christian and a dedicated member of Father’s House Church in West Columbia, WV. His relationship with God was the center of his life and a source of strength to everyone who knew him. Sonny spent his career as a hardworking laborer, providing for his family with quiet determination and humility. After many years of dedicated work, he enjoyed 23 well-deserved years of retirement, filling his days with family, faith, and the simple pleasures that brought him joy. He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, the love he poured into his family, and the calm, steady presence he brought into every room. Walter’s warmth was also reflected in his smile and laugh, which had the ability to light up any space and bring comfort to all near him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know and love him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Sonny’s honor. The family would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Emogene Dolin Jones Hospice House in Huntington, WV, as well as Hospice of Huntington for their compassionate care during Walter’s end-of-life transition.

Funeral services will be held at Anderson-McDaniel Funeral Home in Pomeroy, Ohio, on Saturday, April 12, 2025. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with the funeral service to follow.

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