BREWER, JOHN WALKER, was born 16 January 1893 on Shawnettee Creek, Wayne County, Tennessee. His parents were James Lewis Calvin BREWER “Jim Boy” and Mary Elizabeth RINKS. His grandparents were Henry B. BREWER (a “High” Sheriff of Wayne County), and Permelia RISNER BREWER; James Henry RINKS and Martha Jane MORRISON RINKS. John Walker BREWER was one of twelve children. A brother, Hershel, lives in Birmingham, Alabama. His only half sister, Tela BREWER MOORE, lives in Lawrenceburg.

John was inducted into service in Hardin County, Tennessee probably while “farming out” as he usually lived in Wayne County. He entered service on 26 October 1917, and served until 14 March 1919 when he received an honorable discharge.

Gladys Delora GRIGGS and John Walker BREWER were married on 24 September 1925 in Giles County, Tennessee. They had two children. John Edward BREWER was born on 29 March 1933, married Betty Fay HELTON and they had seven children. Gladys “Frances” BREWER was born 5 September 1938, married James Richard RAINS and they have two children.

This veteran was a member of the Shawnettee Methodist Church and American Legion Post #130. He enjoyed farming, swimming, traveling and the outdoors. He also enjoyed picnics and outings with his family and especially his grandchildren. While John was in service, he shook hands with President Woodrow WILSON on the White House lawn.

John Walker BREWER died at the V.A. hospital in Murfreesboro, Tennessee on 11 November 1973. He was 80 years old.