Phyllis E. Walters

Bartow- Phyllis E. Walters, 88, of Bartow, Florida passed away on March 12, 2011 after a valiant effort combating heart disease. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lt. Col. William E. Walters, retired. Mrs. Walters was born on September 6, 1922, in Chelsea, Massachusetts. She married Col. Walters on August 30, 1941, and is survived by her two children, Bill and Gae and two grandchildren, Anna and Andrew Walters. Mrs. Walters was a dedicated community volunteer and proponent of the arts throughout her life. During World War II, Mrs. Walters was a member of the Massachusetts Women's Defense Corps. She volunteered for various theatrical and school activities while her husband was on active duty in Virginia, Tokyo, Japan and Orleans, France. Mrs. Walters was a founding member and President of the Bartow Band Boosters and served as a Girl Scout leader. She founded the Bartow Performing Arts Council and served as its President from 1977-1978 and 1982-1983. In 1984, she received the Distinguished Career Award from the Council. Mrs. Walters served as an evaluator and judge as a member of the Florida Theater Conference. She received the Distinguished Career Award from the Conference in 1987. Mrs. Walters volunteered as a Docent for the Polk County Museum and served as a substitute teacher in the Polk County Schools for over 15 years. Family will receive friends 6-8 pm, Thursday, March 17, 2011 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home, 650 E. Main St, Bartow. Funeral services will be held 11:00 am Friday, March 18, 2011 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, B'nai B'rith or a charity of your choice.