Dr. J. Marlan Walker was born November 3, 1928, in Hurricane, Utah, and spent half of his youth in the town of Caliente, Nevada. He attended Lincoln County High School in Panaca, Nevada, and graduated from Hurricane High School in 1946. Mr. Walker received his bachelor of arts degree from the University of the Americas, Mexico City, in 1952; his master’s degree in Classical and Romance Languages from Brigham Young University in 1961; and his doctorate degree in Classical and Romance Languages from Brigham Young University in 1971.

Dr. Walker served in the United States Navy from 1946 to 1947. He married Colleen Heaton in 1947, and they are parents of four sons and two daughters. The family moved to Henderson, Nevada, in January 1952, and their children attended and graduated from Clark County School District schools in the Henderson area. 

Dr. Walker was a foreign language teacher at Basic High School for thirty-six years. Although administration was an option, he chose to remain in the classroom where he could inspire his students and share his love for learning. This display of devotion to education serves as an example of reaching to great heights to uplift others. He had a wonderful approach with his students and created an atmosphere for learning. Through hard work and perseverance, he has had a major impact on all facets of life in our community. 

During his years of service in the Clark County School District, Dr. Walker served on the Nevada State Foreign Language Curriculum Committee, Evaluation Committee for Foreign Languages for the Northwest Accreditation Committee, Curriculum Development Committee for two new high schools, and the Foreign Interchange Program Committee for Clark County School District Students. 

Dr. Walker received recognition as a member of the Clark County School District Hall of Fame (twice named), Henderson Citizen of the Year, Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow, Nevada Junior Chamber of Commerce’s nomination as one of the Ten National Outstanding Men of the Year, and Clark County Teacher of the Year. 

Dr. J. Marlan Walker has lived his life as a loving advocate for the youth and citizens of Nevada. He has served in such diversified areas and has been recognized for his scholarship, leadership, service, character and citizenship. He is an exemplary role model as a loving husband, father and provider, teaching compassion and empathy for people of all walks of life.