Roll Call Tribute

Walter Fant Worthington 

August 29, 1926 - October 9, 2024 

Walter Worthington, 98, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

Visitation: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at White’s Funeral Home, 130 Houston Ave., Weatherford, Texas. Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at First Methodist Church, 301 South Main St., Weatherford, Texas. Interment: Oakland Cemetery, Weatherford, Texas. 

Walter was born August 29, 1926 in Weatherford, son of Joe Lewis Worthington and Frances (Fant) Worthington. While he was born in Weatherford, he grew up in Jacksboro, in a family of bankers and ranchers

Walter proudly and bravely served his country in the United States Navy during World War II. Following his military service, he was active in the rodeo circuit. He would enroll in Sul Ross College and go on to graduate with his Bachelor’s Degree from Texas A&M University.

He met the love of his life, Jo Harrington, and they married on September 20, 1950 in Alpine, Texas. They spent over 70 happy years together until Jo’s passing on February 10, 2021.

After graduation Walter and Jo returned to Weatherford to raise their family. The family would join First Methodist Church of Weatherford in 1955 and would remain active members of the church until they both passed.

In 1963 Walter would join First National Bank in Weatherford, where his grandfather and uncle had previously been presidents. He would work his way up to the title of Vice President before resigning in 1974 to pursue ranching interests. In 1965, Walter went on to enter the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University, and graduated in 1967. In April 1975, Walter would accept the position of Vice President with Coleman Bank in Coleman, Texas. In 1977 he would take over as Vice President of First National Bank in Brownwood. Then in 1980 he and one other individual purchased controlling interest in the First State Bank in Bryson. He later bought out his partners interest and sold this bank in 1986. In July of 1984, Walter founded Weatherford National Bank, and served as President and C.E.O. After 11 years, the bank was sold to First Financial Bank.

Over the years, Walter was involved with countless organizations including: the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce, Weatherford Booster Club, Weatherford Lion’s Club, Parker County Sheriff’s Posse, the Weatherford Camp of the Gideons, Weatherford Municipal Water and Light Board, to name a few.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, Jo (Harrington) Worthington; and one brother, Melvin Worthington.

Survivors include his children, Mark Worthington and wife, Dottie, Brookes Worthington and wife, Michelle, and Jan Reid and husband, Steve; grandchildren, Bree Clay and husband, Nathan, Brooke Ladouceur and husband, L. P., Brooklyn McIntosh and husband, Dan, Briley Worthington and wife, Casey, Jake Reid, Sam Reid and wife, Bre, and Shae Cleveland and husband, Colton; fourteen great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and dear friends.