Roll Call Tribute

Walker B. Porter, DVM 

August 27, 1934 - December 13, 2025 

Dr. Walker Porter passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Walker was born in Lamesa, Texas, to J.C. and Janie Porter. He was raised in Seminole, Texas alongside his sisters, Jay Morris and Nelda Holt. Following high school, Walker attended Texas A&M University, Class of 1956, graduating in 1958 with a degree in Veterinary Medicine. While at Texas A&M, he met Ethel Ann De Cordova and they married in 1958.

Upon graduation, Walker received his commission in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Columbus, Mississippi, where their first son, Britt, was born. Walker retired from the Air Force as Captain. He and his family returned to central Texas, where he established a veterinary practice and helped operate the family-owned Groesbeck Commission Company in Groesbeck, Texas. There Walker and Ethel had three more children, June Ann, Holly, and Kent. In 1974 Walker and his family moved to El Paso, Texas, where he pursued his lifelong dream of practicing as a veterinarian specializing in racehorses.

Walker practiced for 26 years on the New Mexico racing circuit at Sunland Park, Ruidoso Downs, and Albuquerque. He became licensed in all 16 states with legalized horse racing. His practice was widely recognized as innovative. Veterinary students from around the world came to work and learn under his mentorship. Walker was among the first in the country to perform equine arthroscopic surgery. He retired from practice in 2000. He was a member of Rotary International and the Masonic Lodge, achieving the rank of Master Mason, 32nd Degree. He also enjoyed flying planes as a hobby.

In 2005, Walker and Ethel moved to McKinney, Texas, where they reunited with classmates from Baylor and Texas A&M, traveled extensively, and spent cherished time with their grandchildren in Texas and Florida. After 55 years of marriage, Walker was preceded in death by his beloved Ethel. In 2017, Walker returned to El Paso.

Walker is survived by his children: Britt Porter (Sylvia), June Ann Porter Allen (Charles), Holly Porter Jones (David), and Kent Porter (Ginger); grandchildren: Gentry, Sterling, Jacob, Brooke, John, Holt, and Kristopher.

Celebration of life and internment will take place in Groesbeck, Texas. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Legacy at Cimarron and Hospice El Paso staff for their compassionate and devoted care of Walker.