Jean Walton

Jean was born on July 26, 1928, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was a graduate of South High School and continued her education at Grand Rapids Community College for two years. During her children’s formative years, Jean devoted herself to her family as a stay-at-home mother. Later, she worked in the office at Central Elementary School in Grandville, where she spent a number of years nurturing and supporting the lives of countless young students.

In the early 1990s, Jean discovered a passion for dancing when she joined the Senior Steppers, a group with whom she remained active until just a few years ago. Those who knew her often believed dancing was the secret to her remarkable health and youthful spirit. Heartfelt thanks are extended to her dance instructor and dearest friend, Pat Meyer, whose friendship and encouragement kept Jean joyfully dancing for the past 35 years.

Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 35 years, H. Dale Walton; sisters Ruth Hess, Mary Lou Vander Vort, and Margaret Glee Fleming; and grandson-in-law, Justin Van Houdt.

She is lovingly survived by her children Cynthia Glee Walton‑Sparks and Patrick Dale Walton (Marie); grandchildren Alaina Beth Van Houdt, Blake Patrick Walton, and Stephanie Walton Sparks-Sartan (Chase); and great‑grandchildren Madelyn, Alivia, and Rylan Van Houdt.

Jean will be forever remembered for her faithful prayers, gentle wisdom, joyful laughter, and enduring love.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant…Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:21

Funeral services will be held 3:30 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan, with visitation prior to the service from 2:00-3:30 p.m. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.