Valda Frances Walker

Today, we gather to celebrate the life and legacy of Valda Frances Quigley Walker, a remarkable woman who graced this world with her presence for 85 wonderful years. Born on January 7th, 1940, at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Yakima, Washington, Valda, affectionately known as Val, led a life filled with love, dedication, and unwavering strength.

Early Life and Family

Valda was the beloved daughter of William "Bill" Francis Quigley and Elva “Aleta” Tobey. Her father, Bill, was a caretaker of the Country Club and a truck driver, while her mother, Aleta, was a devoted homemaker and postal employee. Valda's early years were spent growing up in Rainier Beach alongside her dear older sister, Anajo Quigley Schrader Schaff, and her husband Martin Schaff.

Education and Love

Valda attended Franklin High School, where she graduated in 1957. It was during her school years and through church that Valda met the love of her life, Lloy Henry Walker Jr. Their union was blessed on August 10th, 1957, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey together. Lloy and Val were devoted to each other, and their love story blossomed with the arrival of their five beautiful children: Jesse Lee, Jodi Lynn, Gaile Corinne, William Lloy "Billy", and Pamela Jean. Yes, Valda and Lloy managed to raise five kids -a feat truly commendable.

Career and Community

Valda's professional life was as diverse as it was full. She worked as a telephone operator for the Bell Company, Boeing, Child Care and Bon Marche. The Walker family made their home in Burien, conveniently located next door to their church. When the family relocated to Tukwila, WA Where all their children graduated from Tyee High School, their former house was bought by the church. They later acquired a vacation property with a cozy cabin on Hood Canal, which became a cherished retreat for the entire family. Countless memories were made there, filled with love, laughter, and the joy of being surrounded by friends and family. Even the grandchildren and great-grandchildren cherished their visits to "GG’s" beautiful home.

Challenges and Resilience

Valda faced her share of challenges with remarkable resilience. In 2020, she suffered a horrific fall and was airlifted to Harborview Hospital in Seattle. Despite the isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Valda fought hard to recover. Her strength and determination were truly inspiring.

Later, Valda became a resident of Brannon Park Assisted Living in Auburn, where she found happiness in her charming apartment, lovingly decorated by her daughter-in-law, Tami.

Valda made many wonderful new friends there and became known as the Skip Bo Queen, sharing countless meals, laughter, and heartfelt conversations with her dear friends Bea, Jan, and Stella.

A Legacy of Love

Valda's life was a testament to love, family, and resilience. Her beloved husband Lloy passed away on October 10th, 2007, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Despite this heart-wrenching loss, Valda continued to be a pillar of strength for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that wilt forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

As we say goodbye to Valda Frances Quigley Walker, we remember her as a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and loyal friend. Her spirit will live on in the beautiful memories she created and the lives she touched. May she rest in peace, united with her beloved Lloy once more.

Rest in peace, Valda. Your love and light will continue to guide us always.

It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you of the passing of our beloved Mother Val. She was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many with her kindness, generosity, and no-nonsense attitude. As we come to terms with this immense loss, I wanted to take a moment to celebrate and honor the incredible life she lived.

Valda was known for her boundless love and dedication to her family and friends. She was always there to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or to get the party going. She loved to sing and dance with her children, grandchildren and friends, new and old. She will be deeply missed. Val was highly respected and admired for her hard work and determination.

As we gather to remember and celebrate Val's life with us, a private family memorial service to honor Valda will be on February 16th in Burien. Mom will be interned on March 7th at noon, outside at her final resting place at Greenwood Memorial Cemetery in Renton, WA. Your support during this difficult time would mean a great deal to our family.

Thank you for your love, support, and understanding during this time of sorrow