The news that Flying Possum Leather owner Bruce Walker died on Monday morning left area residents saddened and shocked.
As evidenced by the impromptu sidewalk vigil that began soon after the news began to circulate and continued throughout the evening, Bruce touched many lives in the area over the years. Flowers, candles, cards and messages written on the plywood covering the front of the store tell stories of the love and respect area residents had for the store owner and friend.
In response to the news, friends and fellow business owners immediately began making plans to honor Walker, and to assist his family in offsetting funeral expenses. A Memorial and Fundraiser for Bruce Walker has been scheduled for this Sunday, March 13th from 1 – 9:30 p.m. at George’s Majestic Lounge. Area bands will perform throughout the event, including Jed Clampit, Brandy Armstrong, Pope County Bootleggers, Sarah Hughes Band, Mountain of Venus, Guta, Mark Bilyeu of Big Smith, Charliehorse, Kory Montgomery Band, 1 oz Jig, Foxy’s Brown Bag Band, Rock House Reunion with Suds & Sandals, Ultra Suede, Big ‘Uns, Earl & Them, Tim Warden, Daryl Brooks Band with special guest Cherry Brooks, Ozark Blues Society Jam, Benjamin Del Shreve and Groovement.
Food will be provided by Greenhouse Grille, Jose’s, Flying Burrito, Hog Haus, Common Grounds, Little Bread Co. and Pesto Café. Donations will be accepted at the door, with 100% of the proceeds to go to the Bruce D. Walker Memorial Fund. The fund can also be contributed to at all First Security Bank locations, account #8258929.
In honor of Walker the City of Fayetteville will allow free parking in the entertainment district (numbered spaces and gated lots) on Sunday.
In addition to the benefit scheduled for Sunday, another benefit event will occur one week later, March 20th, at Jose’s on Dickson from 2 to 6 p.m. This event will include a Silent Auction and will also feature local bands (to be announced at a later date). Proceeds from this event will be used to begin and perpetuate a Bruce D. Walker Memorial Stage at Springfest, held this year on April 30th.
Custom designed collectors t-shirts honoring Walker will be sold at both events, with the proceeds also going to the Memorial Fund.
Update on Bruce’s dog: Shannon at the Fayetteville Animal Shelter said Bugsy went to his new home on Wednesday with Bruce’s friend Bill Jett.
