Don Gary Walters, 63, of Vero Beach passed away Sept. 29, 2016.
He is survived by his caring, devoted wife, Juneva Williams Walters; two sisters, Patricia Smith and Dora McLendon; one brother, Charles (Bernetta) Walters; mother-in-law Nicey L. Williams; brothers-in-law, Phillip, John O., and Jacques (Jessica) Williams; sister-in-law LaCretia Williams; and an abundance of sorrowing family and friends who will miss his presence dearly.
He was preceded in death by his father, Malachia Walters; mother Thelma Bagley Walters; brother Donnie Walters; and father-in-law, John O. Williams, Sr.
Walters was born in Vero Beach to Malachia and Thelma Bagley Walters. He graduated Vero Beach High School, Indian River Community College and American Culinary Federation Educational Institute Technical Center of St. Augustine, Fla.
He was married to Juneva Williams for 41 years and they enjoyed a unique and endearing relationship together.
Walters was employed as a Professional Cook at Ocean Grill and Driftwood Inn, Vero Beach. He was the food service director for Indian River Correctional Institution for several years and later was employed as a law enforcement officer for Indian River County Sheriff’s Department and Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Department prior to his retirement. He was an active member in the Indian River County Chapter NAACP.
Apart from his joy of cooking delectable recipes for his family and friends, he engaged himself in a wide variety of activities such as hunting, playing cards, sports and antique cars.
Walters’ life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. He departed this life on Sept. 29, 2016, peacefully at the Vero Beach Hospice House, surrounded by his beloved wife, relatives and friends.
A gathering will be held from 10 to 11 a.m., Oct. 8, 2016, with a memorial service immediately following at 11 a.m. at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Don Gary Walters’s name, to the Gifford Youth Achievement Center, 4875 43rd Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32967.
