Josephine Walters

Our sweet Mom, Oma, Great Oma passed away on the afternoon of May 14th, ending her "miserable" struggles of the past few years. Those who love her were anxious for the day that thoughts of her would not include pain, blood sugar levels, tears or her fading thoughts, memory and speech. We now get to think of better times; of her happily and tirelessly working in her beautiful yard, searching the DI and antique shows for Fisher Price toys and other antique" treasures" and reminiscing of her beloved Holland.

Josephine, or Jos to her family and friends, will be well missed by not only those who love her, but also the neighborhood cats, birds and other creatures she cared for, fed and tried to keep from running into the house and down the stairs. One of her favorite things to do was to shop for clothes and with her great fashion sense, she always looked amazing whether going to church or a family BBQ. She certainly had a classy air about her and at the same time could be found watching the television and yelling out loud while kicking one foot up high in the air once her hometown soccer team, PSV, made a goal!

Mom was reserved and a bit shy, so lots of hugs and "I love you"s were not frequently given until her later years when more were lovingly offered and many more were requested. She had a challenging time raising three children by herself after her husband died, but her little family never went without and grew up into strong, capable adults, just like her.

Her first love was her family, always hosting holiday celebrations with beautiful decorations, delicious food and wonderful gifts - spending hours and hours to make everything just right. Her second love was Holland and everything Dutch. From klompen to gebakjes, from farmhouses to canals, she was Dutch through and through. She often thanked her sister on their long-distance calls for being her lifeline to her homeland.

Mom loved to play cards, play games or puzzle with her kids and grandkids. She loved to listen to full-orchestra music which most times made her cry. And she loved to go for a ride in the car to look at the little houses and yards on "her streets" on the hill. Dillard's, Chin Wah and Cactus & Tropicals will continue to miss her discerning taste and happy smile. We will all miss her beautiful face and that happy smile.

"Josje Bia" was born in Amsterdam, The Netherlands on November 27, 1937 to Geeske Vossenberg and Andries Petrus Lambert Bia. She is survived by her older sister, Elly Witlox Bia (Willem) and her younger brother, Dries Bia (Carla). She immigrated to the United States to marry her husband, Richard Ray Walters, on December 2, 1959, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her daughter, Geesette Walters-Clark, and son, Jed D Walters, and was preceded in death by her youngest daughter, Ellenee Sexson (Michael). She was lucky enough to have nine grandchildren: Tyson Walters (Rachelle), Keane Clark, Dane Walters, Haley Walters, Caleson Sexson (Chyanne), Braxton Walters, Dakota Sexson, Jakob Sexson and Tesla Sexson. And she is the Great Oma to Brynn, Kayden, Baylenn, Cade, Owen and Calvin. Her family extends to include wonderful in-laws, nieces and nephews, both American and Dutch.

We will miss you, Mom. We will think of you often and will love you forever. Dag, Liefde, dag.

Due to the current coronavirus pandemic, a graveside service will be held for family only. We thank you for your thoughts, prayers and love you have shown our Mom in the past and hope your memories of her will make you smile in the future.