Walter Neal Fanning

Walter Neal Fanning, age 75, of Lakeland, Georgia passed away on July 3, 2025, after a period of lengthy illness. He was born on November 27, 1949, in Beaver, Oklahoma to the late Jack and Mary Jane (Mann) Fanning. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers (infant) James Fanning and Wayne Fanning.
Walter was a hard worker and lived a humble life. He was happiest when he was serving and helping others. He was a member of New Bethel Baptist Church for most of his life. Over the years he served as a deacon, a Sunday school teacher, in the choir, and he loved being on the visitation team. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, sports and growing fresh vegetables. He spent many years helping care for his mother and disable brother. Walter was a custodian for the Lowndes County School system for over 40 years, serving at Pine Grove and Moultin Branch.
Walter loved his family and friends. His girls, sons-in-law and grandchildren were the highlight of his life. He did not miss a ball game or supporting the grandkids in what ever venture they pursued. He was proud to be their “Poppie”. Walter was known for just showing up at a friend’s doorstep to check in or help when needed.
He is survived by his two daughters and sons in laws, Brian and Heather Gaskins of Hahira, GA and Jospeh and Kimberly Johnson of Lakeland, GA, the mother of his daughters, Delia McCray of Valdosta, GA, his sister and brother-in-law Randy and Jane Rogers of Athens, GA, his aunt Kay Mingo, Scroon Lake, NY and grandchildren Carley Gaskins, Brooke Johnson, Caleb Gaskins, Jenna Johnson, and Logan Johnson along with extended family Robert Jefferson, Howard Ritchie, several nephews and nieces.
The family would like to thank Berrien Fellowship Home and Georgia Hospice for their support and care over the last few years.
A funeral service will be held at 4:30 PM on Sunday, July 6, 2025 at New Bethel Baptist Church with burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM until 4:30 PM on Sunday, July 6, 2025 at the church. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com . In lieu of flowers the family kindly request love offerings to New Bethel Baptist Church, Valdosta GA. The Fanning family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Lakeland.