Walter George Links Jr.

Walter George Links, Jr., (81 years old) better known as Uncle, unless you wanted to rile him up just call him Linkie or Uncle Linkie, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 4, 2025. He was born February 3, 1943, the son of Walter G Links Sr. and Mary Roberta Miles Lee Links, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Walter lived in New Orleans where he began his love of art work while working for the Brant Galleries in the French Quarter. Which later led him to his love for the world of wine. Through Robert Mondavi Winery he was able to fulfill his passion as a sales representative and educator, later being promoted to wine sales manager. He was incredibly proud and loved working with Mr. Mondavi. During his educational lessons on all things wine, Walter would say that wine was an art form and not just a product. Walter lived in many different cities and visited many countries throughout his life, always willing to go where the wine led him.

Walter was well rounded and well versed in art, literature, history, wine and food. These interests allowed him to become friends with several well known celebrities such as Ronnie Cole, New Orleans Entertainer, Justin Wilson, Chef and author, Paul Perdone, Chef and author and Julia Childs, world renowned chef and author, who assisted Walter in cooking dinner to celebrate his birthday amongst friends.

Walter cherished his memories and experiences that were brought to him due to his love of wine and food. Walter played a key role in the development of New Orleans Wine and Food Experience which has become one of the most successful events in the wine industry today. Earning him the distinction of sales person of the year twice while employed by Robert Mondavi Winery. Walter’s vast knowledge of wine, food and sales promoted a rich life full of incredible experiences. Furthering his zeal for life, Walter opened his own restaurants and coffee shop.

Walter was very involved and always friendly with staff and customers. He continued to collect unique wines and art work into retirement. Still educating family and friends of both and instructing which wine pairing were best for events and family gatherings. Walter enjoyed connecting with others, always striking up conversations and relationships with anyone who came into his life. He spent his time helping others through the Walter G. Links, Jr. Foundation and other charities, words of wisdom and guidance.

While showing his dedication and commitment to his faith, he attended Lakeshore Church in Covington, LA, where he spent time weekly with the men’s ministry on Saturday mornings, Friday mornings with diverse faith based men's breakfast, and frequent bible studies. 

Walter believed in the importance of a solid faithful foundation for the youth as he assisted with the Foster Care Respite Ministry at his church. He spent time with his nephews enjoying a good glass of wine, practice shooting and many fishing adventures, which always seem to end up with a call for help. His last few weeks were spent staying with family where he was able to enjoy daily visits, games, cooking, dining, conversations and sharing wine. He was content and at peace during his last weeks. He left his family and friends with fond memories and great stories to carry on for generations to come.

Walter is survived by Nieces, Kim Vincent and Ray Vincent, Tracy Rivera and David Rivera, and Sharon McSherry and Wayne McSherry and Nephews, John Walther, Great Nieces Anna Thomas (Aaron), Michaela Rivera, Jennifer Vincent, Rebecca Timmons (Tyler), and Great Nephews Joshua Laraway, Josiah Bryars, Ryan Vincent, Ross Vincent, JeanPiere (JP) Faget’ and Great Great Nieces Presley Vicent, Chandler Williams, Collins Williams, Luna Faget’, Great Nephews Ean Thomas, Ryker Thomas, Tyson Faget’, Elijah Faget’ Oliver Vincent, Ridge Timmons, Graham Timmons, Lucas Laraway and Taysom Laraway. Predeceased by his parents, Walter G Links Sr and Mary R Miles Lee Links, his sister Antionette Links Walther, and Great Nephew Steven George McSherry.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service on Saturday January 11, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. at Lakeshore Church 15261 Brewster Road Covington, Louisiana 70433. Burial to Follow in the Waldheim Cemetery 77077 LA-21 Covington, Louisiana 70433.