Former VWSD Deputy Superintendent Dr. John Walls dies

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Dr. John Walls, a longtime educator and former deputy superintendent of the Vicksburg-Warren School District, has died. The news of his passing came on Monday night when a family member informed the public over social media.

“My daddy represented so many things so well,” the post read. “He loved his family, his church, definitely his grandchildren, and you know he loved Alcorn State University and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. … My father, Dr. John Walls Jr., left his earthly home today, but his legacy will live on. Thank you to everyone who has supported us during his illness. Thank you to everyone who has sent us love, prayers, and condolences. Arrangements are forthcoming.”

Walls spent more than 40 years in public education. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Alcorn A&M College, a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from Mississippi College, and a doctorate in educational administration from Jackson State University.

Within the VWSD, Walls served as assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent and deputy superintendent before retiring in 2010. He also taught as an adjunct professor at Alcorn State University.

Walls was named Alcornite of the Year in 1997, inducted into the Alcorn State University Hall of Honor in 1999, and received the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education Distinguished Alumnus Award the same year. He was a past national president of the Alcorn State University Alumni Association and a past president of the Omicron Rho Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.