Walter Ray Moyer, 12, of Salem, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, surrounded by his adoring family. Born March 7, 2014, in Roanoke, Va., he is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Shelby Welch and Joe Dillion; maternal great-grandmother, Dagmar Maroneg; and paternal grandparents, Walter Ferguson and Vivian Lorraine Moyer.

Walter was good kid. He was diagnosed as autistic when he was two years old and medical professionals didn’t believe would ever walk, talk or reach typical milestones; however, his mother believed that he would. She worked with him one-on-one and advocated for him, giving him every opportunity to become the person he is today. Walter treated others with kindness and respect and was nice to those around him. He had a contagious smile and laugh, a heart of gold and was quick to be helpful and do whatever was asked of him. He loved sports and was already proving to be an excellent athlete, especially in football and basketball. He was diligent and determined and approached every assignment, athletic training, and goal with perseverance and a “never give up” attitude. He gave everything his all. Walter enjoyed hanging out with his friends and fishing and he loved Dr. Pepper, a favorite he shared with his mom. He loved steak – medium rare – and sharing a good meal with his family. Walter had an unbreakable bond with his family, especially his mother – he was a “momma’s boy, through and through.” If you ever had the privilege to meet him; you’ll never forget him. He was a special kid, with special abilities who made everyone around him feel special too.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his parents, Lisa and Jermaine Moyer; siblings, Naliyah Moyer, Elijah Rabb and Reese Moyer; maternal grandparents, Danny and Debbie Welch; maternal great-great grandfather, Henry Welch; bonus grandparents, Jasper Bannister and Tranda Anderson; aunts, Tanesha Walker and Quanesha Moyer; uncles, Walter Moyer, Shey Jones, Jaron Walker, Billy Welch, Danny Welch and Matt Welch; cousins, Wyatt, Ava, William, Autumn, Josiah, Jaron, Brailyn, Legacy, Armani, Legend and Raigan; cousin, Julian Mortin; as well as two special coaches, many friends and teammates, and his three dogs, Ghost, Kiria and Weiner.

The family will welcome friends for visitation on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in the chapel of John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, Salem. Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., in the funeral home chapel. Interment immediately following in Sherwood Memorial Park, Salem.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.