Susan Martin Walters 1948-2025

Susan embraced each of those years with strength, humor and a quiet resilience that inspired all who knew her. She faced numerous health challenges throughout her life with extraordinary bravery, never complaining and never allowing hardship to define her. Instead, she filled the world around her with beauty, kindness and unwavering love.

She was born July 14, 1948, in Ravenna, to her devoted parents, George Edward Martin and Eleanor Florence Martin.

Her childhood was filled with laughter, adventure and the close bonds of family. She shared many wonderful memories with her siblings and cousins — stories of mischief, love and the friendships that shaped her early years.

On Sept. 19, 1979, she married R. David Walters. Their journey took an unexpected turn when Susan learned she was expecting their first child, Emily, causing them to postpone a much-anticipated European tour. In the years that followed, Claire and Christian joined their family and Susan found immense joy in motherhood. She had a special gift for making childhood magical — her elaborate birthday parties, from “Double Dare” competitions to Barbie-themed cake-making celebrations, became cherished memories.

Susan dedicated many years to Leonard Kirtz School in Austintown, where she worked with children with developmental disabilities. She poured her heart into her work, playing a key role in the creation of a school greenhouse and leading innovative programs. She was known for her creative spirit and her ability to bring joy into the lives of her students — often with the help of her beloved pet cockatiels.

Her love for art and creativity extended beyond the classroom. She participated in events that showcased her students’ talents, submitting Christmas tree designs to Fellows Riverside Gardens and spearheading fundraising efforts through beautifully crafted holiday cards and gift wrap that blended her artwork with that of her students.

A talented artist and crafter, Susan was always working on something special. Whether coming up with new craft projects for her grandchildren, weaving baskets with her sisters or painting holiday figurines with her mother, she infused each creation with love. She was also a dedicated master gardener, and her gardens, filled with vibrant colors, became a source of joy for her and those around her.

While living in Traverse City, she continued to share her gifts with the community — teaching chair yoga, serving as a board member for Arts for All Northern Michigan and always looking for ways to uplift others.

She was a phenomenal hostess and her Thanksgiving celebrations were the stuff of family legend. With up to 45 loved ones gathered, including occasional friends of friends with nowhere else to go, she made everyone feel at home, filling the house with the scent of roasting turkey and laughter. And every celebration ended the same way — everyone gathered around the piano, singing, laughing and basking in the warmth she so effortlessly created. Sometimes in life, you meet someone who simply makes the world brighter. Susan was that person. She had an effortless way of making people feel seen, loved and welcomed. A true friend, confidante and problem solver, she carried herself with grace, warmth and an unwavering kindness that left an imprint on every heart she touched.

Above all, Susan’s greatest joy was her family. She adored her children and grandchildren, treasuring every moment spent with them. As she once wrote, “I have had a wonderful, fulfilling life — far more good than bad — and you three have been my greatest joy, my most important achievement, my dearest treasures.”

Susan will be deeply missed by her loving husband of 45 years, R. David Walters of Traverse City, Michigan; her children, Emily Walters (Jason) of Asheville, North Carolina, Claire Williams (Jason) of Williamsburg, Michigan, and Christian Walters (Meagan) of Traverse City; and her beloved grandchildren, Matilda, Ellie, Lula and Lane.

She is also survived by her dear sisters, Ann Smith (Robert) and Cheryl Brainard of Ravenna, as well as many treasured brothers-, sisters- and cousins-in-law, including Tom and Maggie Reister-Walters; Carol and Jay Ernst; Lani, Lex and Alyssa Calder; Ed Istnick; Jeff and Bobbie Roshitsh; Katy Ernst; Tesia Poponyak; and many more. Susan valued her close friendships with Clare Jones, Philip Epstein, Benita Pearson and Vicki Hosking. She also found great comfort in the companionship of Mishka, her cherished Russian blue cat.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Eleanor, and her cousin-in-law, Alexander Calder. Her sister, Jane Schaeffer, joined her in eternal rest on March 31, 2025.

A celebration of Susan’s life will be held this summer in Williamsburg, Michigan. Reynolds-Jonkhoff is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Susan’s name may be made to Mill Creek Park in Youngstown to help fund the future Children’s Garden. Mill Creek was the site of many family outings over the years and held a special place in Susan’s heart. Donations can be made at https://childrensgarden.fund/donate-now.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Cordia, who became true friends to Susan, and to the dedicated team at Munson Hospice, especially Nacole, for their kindness and care during her final days.

Susan’s life was a testament to love, creativity and selflessness. Though she is no longer with us, her light will continue to shine in the lives of those she touched.

(special notice)