Walter L. Exline Jr., 90, passed away peacefully of natural causes on May 24, 2026, in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Born on August 1, 1935, in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Walter lived an extraordinary American life defined by service, innovation, entrepreneurship, generosity, and devotion to family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Violet “Vi” Exline, who passed away in 2018.

Walter began his professional journey as a Tool and Die Apprentice at Westinghouse, where his remarkable engineering talent quickly became apparent. While working full-time, he furthered his education through coursework at Carnegie Tech, now Carnegie Mellon University. During his years at Westinghouse, one of his proudest accomplishments was contributing to the development of the legendary SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft, one of the most advanced aviation projects in American history.

Before his engineering career, Walter proudly served in the United States Army. A decorated soldier, he was named Soldier of the Year in 1960 for his commitment to troop morale and entertainment throughout the Asia-Pacific region during the post-Korean War era. A gifted vocalist, Walter sang in an Army quartet, sharing his love of music with fellow servicemen and creating lasting memories wherever he performed.

Walter later joined Spalding Golf, where he enjoyed a distinguished career highlighted by building and launching a manufacturing facility in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Following his success at Spalding, Walter and Vi moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he served as President of Hoffman Tool & Die. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to establish his own boat trailer manufacturing company.

The defining chapter of Walter's life began when he and Vi purchased the Raleigh Pizza Parlor, then recognized as “The Best Pizza in Town.” Through hard work, vision, and an unwavering commitment to quality, they transformed the business into Exline's Pizza. Under their leadership, it became one of Memphis's most beloved restaurants and a gathering place for generations of families. More than fifty years later, Exline's Pizza remains a Memphis tradition and a lasting testament to Walt’s entrepreneurial spirit.

After retirement, Walter and Vi settled in Florida, where they enjoyed traveling, golfing, and spending time with friends and family. Their partnership was the foundation of every success they achieved together, and their 62-year marriage remains an inspiring example of love, loyalty, and commitment.

A devoted patriot and philanthropist, Walter quietly supported numerous charitable organizations throughout his life, including The Salvation Army, the Boys & Girls Clubs, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and Rotary International. He believed deeply in helping others and giving back to the communities that had supported him.

Walter is survived by his nephew, Tony Blatnik; his great-nephews, Garrett Blatnik and Justin Blatnik; his great-niece, Melissa Coffey; and his great-great-niece, Catherine Blatnik, whom he loved dearly.

Whether serving his country, engineering innovative solutions, building successful businesses, singing for fellow soldiers, or supporting charitable causes, Walter approached every endeavor with integrity, optimism, and determination. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the countless lives he touched, and the Memphis institution that continues to bear his name.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army, the Boys & Girls Clubs, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Rotary International, or a charity of the donor's choice.Walter will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated for a life well lived.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Hidden Lakes Golf Club on July 4th , 2026 from 10AM -12PM.