Walt James

Walter Franklin James Jr., Ph. D, C.P.A of Topeka, Kan., passed away Saturday, May 21. 

Walt was born on March 14, 1934, to Walter (Sr.) and Madge (Terry) James in Webb City. After graduating from Webb City High School, he went on to study accounting, earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tulsa, a master’s degree from Oklahoma State University, and ultimately his doctorate from the University of Missouri. Walt was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Topeka. 

He was united in holy matrimony to Nancy Sue (Forkum) James in July of 1955. Their marriage was blessed with three children. Nancy preceded him in death on July 6, 2000. 

Walt was in private practice as a Certified Public Accountant in the early years of his professional life, but most notably had a distinguished career as a professor of accounting in the School of Business at Washburn University of Topeka for 24 years, where he won numerous awards and earned the respect of his colleagues. Dr. James took great pride in having guided and mentored countless students during his teaching career. He followed the professional and personal lives of many of his students long after they had graduated from college. Walt was also active in the professional community of CPAs for many years. 

Walt’s life will forever by cherished in the lives of his children, Thad James (Kathy King), St Louis, Mary Susan Bose, Covington, La., and Steven Blake (Stacie) James, Topeka; four grandchildren, Jane (Matthew) Oliver, Bobby (Sarah) Bose, Autumn James, and Nicholas (Faithanne) James; one great-grandchild, Charlotte Nancy Bose; three siblings, Janet Stultz, Mary Curtis Browning, and Robert (Sandy) James. He was preceded in death by his brother, William Terry James. Walt was lucky enough to have found love again in his later life and is survived by his dear companion, Marilyn Tebow. 

Walt will be remembered for his beautiful tenor singing voice, his generous spirit, his love of family and history, his ability to tell stories an his enjoyment of travel. He was well known for his love for his hometown of Webb City, and he maintained friendships with many people from his childhood and adolescence throughout his life. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Penwell-Gabel, Topeka. At Walt’s request, no memorial service will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care Hospice, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.