Sonny Walker served aboard the destroyer USS Laffey, DD-724, where he made many lifelong friends. They return to their ship, moored at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, SC three or four times a year to have work parties to maintain their ship. I first met Sonny in 2012 when I served on a foundation that helped raise money to support the crew’s efforts. Sonny loved to laugh and enjoyed life. We shared a sense of humor and became fast friends. Although I never served, the crew ‘adopted’ me and I’ve made great friends and attended many reunions. My heart goes out to Sonny’s wife of over 60 years, Cher; that’s right, Sonny and Cher.
Sonny was the long time President of the USS Laffey Association and directed numerous reunions, events and work parties. The video tribute to my friend is an assembly of many photos and videos taken over the years. He was a good friend, highly respected by his shipmates and loved by his wife and family. His passing in his sleep on the night of July 13, 2026 came as a shock to us all. He will be missed very much.
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▶ Sonny Walker: USS Laffey DD-724 (2:52)
In Memoriam — Sonny Walker
USS Laffey DD-724 — July 13, 2026
Fair winds and following seas.
Tribute from Shipmate John Hudak
This tribute honors a friendship that grew into something as strong as brotherhood. When I
reunited with Sonny in 1997, years after serving aboard the LAFFEY, we picked up right where we
left off. That bond only deepened through our time together in the LAFFEY Association, especially
during the many work parties we shared.
When Sonny became President of the Association, he gave it everything he had. He organized
the work parties with dedication and kept us in good standing with Patriots Point by staying in
constant communication about our activities. In his early years as President, Sonny also took on
the responsibility of organizing the ship’s reunions. He truly did it all.
Sonny loved talking with the ship’s visitors and took great pride in representing her
history. He cared so deeply about the role that he held it for 12 years, even though no one else
was eager to take it on. Beyond that, he was our grocery shopper and cook, always making sure we
were well fed during those long work days.
Sonny, you gave so much of yourself to all of us, and your presence made every moment better.
Now you can rest in the Lord’s House. We love you, and we will miss you, my brother.
