Walter Phillip "Walt" Erwin

Celebration of Life services for Walter Phillip Erwin, 74, of Tulsa, OK, were held Saturday, August 9, 2025, at The Park Church of Christ in Tulsa, OK. Pastor Mitch Wilburn officiated, and burial was in Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa, OK. Honorary Casket Bearers were Frank Erwin, Jason Erwin, Danny Kinney, Steve Anderson, Dale Bresee, Chris Butson, Jim Roberts, Mitch & Shannon Wilburn, Dr. Irfan Kundi, M.D., Walt’s Forge Group, and the Uniting Men to Become Promise Keepers Task Force.

Walt, a beloved Husband, Dad, Papa, Brother, and faithful Servant of God, was born April 6, 1951, in Henryetta, OK, to Francis Marion Erwin and Jerry Nell (Hart) Erwin. He went to be with the Lord on July 25, 2025, in Tulsa, OK.

Walt lived a life marked by deep faith, relentless love, sacrificial giving and selfless service. Walt gave his life to Jesus at nine years old, but it was around age 30 when he encountered the Holy Spirit in a way that ignited a lifelong passion. From that moment on, his mission was clear: to not just believe the words of Jesus, but to live them. He dedicated his life to walking in the power of the Holy Spirit and teaching others to do the same – encouraging everyone he met to “Do What Jesus Would Do” (DWJWD). His favorite verse was James 1:22. On June 24, 1972, Walt married his high school sweetheart, Kathy Kay Kinney. After they were married, they lived in Norman, and both graduated from OU with business degrees. They moved back to Tulsa and together they raised three children, who continue to carry on their father’s legacy of faith and love. Walt was a proud Papa to his nine precious grandchildren. Nothing brought him more joy than being surrounded by his family, especially during holidays and the large, memory-filled family trips he so loved to plan. In 1981, Walt’s faith was tested when he had to go on dialysis for 14 months until he received a kidney transplant from his brother Frank – a gift of life that miraculously lasted 34 years. In 2017, he received a second transplant from Shannon Wilburn which gave him 7.5 more precious years. Because of the transplant, he was able to witness the birth of two more grandchildren. He always thanked the Lord for the extra time he was given to be with his kids and grandkids. In the 1990s, Walt had a dream to start a men’s ministry movement, called “Uniting Men to Become Promise Keepers.” From 1993 to 1999, he spearheaded and hosted events attended by over 51,000 men at TU Skelly Stadium, ORU Mabee Center and Garnett Church of Christ during which thousands of men surrendered their lives to Jesus. Walt believed deeply in the power of godly men to transform their families, churches, and communities.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Erwin; his children, Matthew, Holly, and Kyler and their spouses; grandchildren, Tyler, Lucas, Jake, Avery, Eisley, Ellis, Benzli, Eliah, and Nash; brother, Frank Erwin; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Jerry Erwin; and brother, David Erwin.

Walt Erwin lived with uncommon courage, kindness, and deep conviction. He was always looking for ways to serve, to bless, to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the everyday moments. Whether he was praying over someone at church, encouraging a young father, or playing with his grandkids, Walt left a lasting mark—one of love, humility, and grace.

He finished his race well. He fought the good fight. And now he hears the words he longed for his whole life: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

To God be the glory.

Memorial donations in Walt’s memory may be made to Contact Mission Church of Christ in Tulsa, OK, or Hope Harbor, Inc. in Claremore, OK.

Arrangements and services were entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, Sperry.

Online condolences to the family can be made at johnsonsperry.com.