

Her husband, Ron, was at her side, holding her hand as she slipped away.
Carolyn was born on July 24, 1933, in Mexico, Missouri, to Meredith Martillus Staples and Mary Kathryn Staples. She later made her home in Davenport, Iowa, where she built a life centered on family, friendship, and faith. She graduated from Davenport High School in 1951 and was married on June 7, 1952, to the love of her life, Paul Ronald Walters.
Together they shared 73 devoted years of marriage—a partnership marked by affection, loyalty, and enduring joy. Carolyn was a proud and loving mother to Ed (Linda), Bruce (Laurie), and Rhonda (Rich), and deeply loved her seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She also shared a close and cherished bond with her sisters, Shirley and Elaine, and with their children and grandchildren. Known for her warm laughter and gentle spirit, Carolyn was kind, thoughtful, and unfailingly sweet. She had a remarkable gift for friendship and maintained close relationships throughout her life. Her card club friends met faithfully for more than fifty years, and she was an active member of Edwards Congregational Church. She volunteered with several community organizations and deeply valued her neighbors, many of whom became lifelong friends.
Above all, Carolyn was deeply loved by her husband, her children, and her extended family. Her grace, warmth, and laughter will be remembered always by those fortunate enough to have known her.
Private services were held at the Runge Mortuary. To honor Carolyn’s love of animals, memorial contributions may be made to the Scott County Humane Society.
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