[1][2] Walsh was born in Holyrood, Newfoundland, and was educated St. Bonaventure's College and Dalhousie University.
Walsh was a supporter for Sir Richard Squires and was elected MHA for the district of Harbour Main in 1928 and became Speaker of the House of Assembly.
He lost his seat in the 1932 election and became district magistrate for five years for Grand Falls and then Corner Brook.
In 1944, he was appointed to Newfoundland's Commission of Government as Commissioner of Home Affairs and Education and in 1947, he was given the portfolio of Justice of Defense.
Walsh had chaired the delegation for terms of union with Canada and upon Confederation coming into effect, he was appointed the first Lieutenant Governor of the Province of Newfoundland.