Fay Jeanette Walpole

Jeanette, as she was known to most people, was born in Old Hickory, TN on January 26, 1952. She grew up in a loving home with her mom and dad and three older brothers.

She married her high school sweetheart, Dexter Walpole, in 1970. They spent years traveling around the world, sailing and having adventures, before setting down roots outside of San Diego, CA in 1986. They have been happily married for 56 years.

She held numerous jobs over the years, but she really found her calling as a mom to her two children, and later as a Mela to her grandbabies. During tax season, she worked as a secretary for Steve Sund, CPA. Next year would have been her thirtieth year working with him, she was not just an employee, but a good friend. She knew every client that came in and befriended several of them as well.

Jeanette is predeceased by her father Rymon Huffines, her mother Lillie Faydell Huffines, and two of her brothers: Hollis Huffines and Ronnie “Frog” Huffines.

Jeanette is survived by her devoted husband Dexter Walpole, her daughter Kristin Walpole, her son Kirk Walpole and his wife Sylvia, her grandchildren: Xiomara Walpole, Xavier Walpole, and Jonathan Ward, her brother Prentice Huffines and his wife Becky, her sisters-in-law: Peggy Mullins and her husband James, Pat Huffines, and Donna Huffines, her brothers-in-law Tim Walpole, and Tony Walpole, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, and her beloved dachshund Puddin.

She was a loving friend, wife, mother, and Mela, who is truly and utterly missed, by all who knew her. She loved going shopping, traveling, and watching British TV and cozy mysteries. Her favorite thing in the world, was visiting with her grandbabies.

Jeanette never met a stranger, she could strike up a conversation with anyone. She was a firecracker of a woman. She lit up every room and her laugh was infectious. She was just so fun and fearless. She was down for any adventure and was the life of the party, but she also enjoyed just hanging out.

Everyone she left behind is so heartbroken, but we are happy she is in her heavenly home and finally free from sickness, and we know we will see her again one day. She would want everyone to live in the moment, enjoy it all, and be happy!

Jeanette was always clear, a party should be held upon her death. In fulfillment of that wish, we invite you to celebrate her life, simply bring yourself and your favorite happy memories of Jeanette to share. There will be a Celebration of Life ceremony at Hermitage Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens on July 15, 2026, visitation will be from 2-4pm and the service will begin at 4pm.