John H. Walker II, Sheridan Town Supervisor, died unexpectedly at his home on Saturday night. He was 77 years old. Photo by Braden Carmen

SHERIDAN — The town supervisor of Sheridan has unexpectedly passed away, leaving the Town Board without its leader.

John H. Walker II, 77, died Saturday night at his home. Funeral arrangements will be handled by the Larson-Timko Funeral Home.

“John Walker was a respected leader, not just in the town of Sheridan, but throughout the county,” said Terry Niebel, Chautauqua County Legislator and Sheridan resident. “We’re all saddened by his sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

Walker served the Town of Sheridan as Supervisor since he returned to the role in January 2018. He previously served as Town Supervisor eight years prior. Among many other duties, Walker was also a dedicated board member with the North County Water District and Chadwick Bay Intermunicipal Water Works.

“John was a successful businessman, but he was also a committed public servant,” Niebel said. “We have lost a man who was an advocate for the public — serving in not only elected positions, but on many boards and committees. His passing leaves a void that won’t easily be filled.”

Walker is the third Town Supervisor to die within the last four months. Dunkirk Town Supervisor Richard “Dick” Purol died in February, and Charlotte Town Supervisor Allen Chase died in May.

The Town Board is scheduled to meet Wednesday at 6 p.m. for a public hearing on a proposed solar energy project, with the regularly scheduled board meeting to follow.