Walter graduated from Austin High School in 1958. He graduated from Sam Houston State University in 1963 and played tackle for the Bearkats, lettering from 1959-1962. He earned many football accolades including Lone Star Conference First Team, and Dallas Morning News Texas Team. He was especially proud to be a member of the 1961 undefeated Lone Star Conference c team. In 1994, Walter was named to the Sam Houston State University Hall of Honor.

While at Sam Houston, Walter met LeNora Zackary and they were married May 26, 1962.

Walter and LeNora moved to Edna in 1963 when he accepted a position as an assistant varsity football coach, beginning a 32-year career with Edna ISD.

Walter became a coach and teacher at Edna High School. In 1968 he was named the first principal at Carver Elementary School and spent the last 19 years as Business Manager for the district. He also served as the Jackson County Juvenile Probation Officer for 20 years. One of the highlights of his coaching career was leading the Edna Cowboys to the 1965 AA State Football Finals.

His commitment to education and the students and families of Edna left a lasting impact on the community.

Walter was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Edna, serving as Treasurer Secretary for over 20 years. He also served on numerous boards and committees within the church and community.

Walter is survived by his wife of 63 years, LeNora Zackary Dollar of Edna, his children, Denise (Mike) Hlavaty of Richmond, and David (Lori) Dollar of Tomball. He was a proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Lance (Afton) Hlavaty of Houston, Lyndey (Carson) Flora of Cypress, Drake (Morgan) Dollar of Tomball, Brooke Dollar of Houston, and Drew (Caroline) Dollar of Fort Worth. He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Leah Hlavaty, Pierce Hlavaty, Ayden Flora, Hayes Flora and Parker Dollar. He is also survived by his brother, Bobby Dollar of Georgetown, Texas, his brother-in-law, C.A.

Zackary (Janette) of Houston and sister-inlaw, Debbie Zackary of West Columbia, Texas.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, sister Shirley Manning and brother-in-law Norman Manning.

Walter will be fondly remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his community and his lifelong love of education and athletics. He made a difference in the lives of countless students, colleagues and friends, leaving a legacy of love, leadership and service.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the caregivers at Southbrooke Manor in Edna for their compassionate care.

Services were held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, beginning with a graveside service at 10 a.m. at Memory Gardens in Edna. A memorial service followed at the First United Methodist Church in Edna, followed by a reception.

Pallbearers will be Lance Hlavaty, Drake Dollar, Drew Dollar, Carson Flora, Will Manning, Jon Manning, Todd Orsak, Brett Orsak and Will McNeil. Honorary pallbearers include Lyndey Flora, Brooke Dollar, Afton Hlavaty, Morgan Dollar, Caroline Dollar, teammates of the 1961 Sam Houston State Lone Star Conference Championship team and the 1965 Edna Cowboys AA State Football Finalist team.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Edna First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 790, Edna, TX 77957; or the Texana Arts Council, P.O. Box 1334, Edna, TX 77957.

Arrangements are under the direction of Slavik Funeral Home in Edna, Texas.