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PAULINE WALKER Obituary

WALKER, Pauline E. (Sullivan) Of Medford, December 24, 2013. Beloved longtime City of Medford School Teacher for over 50 years. Former wife of the late William R. Walker. Loving mother of Noralee Walker of Concord, David Walker and his wife Suzanne of Lynnfield. Beloved sister of Jean Sullivan of Marshfield, Ronald Sullivan of Medford, the late Stephen Sullivan. Dear aunt of Joel and Kevin Gould. Funeral procession from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.), SOMERVILLE, Tuesday morning at 8am followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Joseph Church, Medford at 9am. Relatives and friends invited. Calling hours Monday 4-8pm. Interment Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paulines memory to the Andrews Middle School Drama Club, 3000 Mystic Valley Pkwy., Medford, MA 02155. The family would like to thank the Critical Care Unit Staff at Emerson Hospital. For more information, please visit: dohertyfuneralservice.com.

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Published by Boston Globe from Dec. 28 to Dec. 29, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for PAULINE WALKER

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Patricia (DelTorto) Putnam

May 2, 2025

I´ve been trying to find my Kindergarten teacher from Forest Park School, Medford, MA...1960-1961. I´ve waited too long to tell her that she was the most amazing sensitive, fun teacher...who launched my love of learning. I became a teacher. She was the best! Is this Miss Sullivan? Patricia (DelTorto) Putnam, who danced `Tea for Two´ and school assembly, painted black streaked bananas (and that was OK), and fed the turtles!

Bob Buoncuore

March 27, 2014

Condolences to Mrs. Walker's family. I remember, thought I did not have her. She joins my aunt, Rosemary Scavongelli as they are now teaching in Heaven together.

birthday party with the teachers

January 5, 2014

Andrews Team 6A

January 5, 2014

January 3, 2014

Noralee,
Sorry to hear about your mom's passing during holiday time but know you will find comfort in the good life she lived and legacy she left; also you will find comfort in reading mementos she saved. I wish you strength and courage in this difficult time. Hugs and warm thoughts, Cindy Cummings

Barbara Casarano

January 3, 2014

Dear David and Noralee,
I remember your mother with fondness from our days on the MHS string committee. She was always so energetic, intelligent and quick witted. Always committed to the two of you and expanded that to care for her students and other kids in the orchestra. I am so sorry for your loss.
Barbara Casarano

Pat Hollenbeck

January 3, 2014

Noralee,

From all of your friends and colleagues in the Boston Musicians' Association we send our best to you. I read the interview with your Mother and she sounded like an extraordinary person.
You were lucky to have her as your Mother.

Allie McCormack

January 2, 2014

Had Miss Sullivan in 3rd Grade at the Fulton School. She was witty, tough and thoughtful all at the same time. Great teacher!

Jimmy Martorana

January 2, 2014

David,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. Your family is in my prayers.

bill neary

January 1, 2014

I happened upon this sad news by chance...
I shoveled the sidewalk and steps for mrs walker at her park st home when it snowed...
over 45 years ago...when I lived down the street from her and "mr bill"
always had a kind word and cookies for me
now that im 57,,,,,WOW what a wonderfull lady
god bless

December 31, 2013

To Pauline's Family,
Pauline was an inspiration to both children and teachers. I have wonderful memories of her while teaching at the Brooks-Hobbs. She was a funny and intelligent woman whom I greatly admired. My sympathy and prayers to all of you.

Marie Macdonald Champion

December 30, 2013

To Ms. Walker's Family,

While at the neighboring Wake this evening, I learned of Ms. Walker's passing. About four years ago, I had the great fortune of doing some of my student teaching observations in her classroom. In that short week, I had learned so much. She was such an impactful person who was the finest of educators. She truly cared about her students. This past spring, I was completing yet another set of observations; this time for my master's degree. Sure enough, there was Ms. Walker. If Ms. Walker could make such an impression on me, in such a short time span, I can only imagine the great impact she has had on her many students.

My condolences to family, friends, colleagues, and students.

Kevin DeCosta
Lesley College

December 30, 2013

Dear Noralee and David: We are very sad to learn of your Mother's passing. Not only was she a fine educator, but a very important presence in many people's lives.

We will always remember her fondly, and hope that you can take comfort in the fact that she was truly exceptional.

Al and Priscilla Morse
Kennebunkport, Maine

December 30, 2013

Dear David and Noralee,

I am saddened to learn of Pauline 's passing. We taught together at the Brooks-Hobbs for many years. She was inspiring to both students and faculty and will be missed.

Herb Wells

Steve DiLeo

December 30, 2013

My deepest condolences, David and Noralee. I remember her fondly as a proud MHS band parent. Always fun and full of life.

Leslie Trotta

December 30, 2013

Rich and I are so sorry to hear of the passing of Pauline Walker. She was my colleague for many years; always full of energy and a smile. May we all be as strong, compassionate, and positive as Pauline was in her teaching career and in life.

Our condolences to Noralee and David.

Leslie and Rich Trotta

December 30, 2013

To the Sullivan/ Walker Families,
Pauline shared an adjoining classroom with me from 2010-2012 at the Andrews. I so enjoyed her boisterous and spunky personality. She was a caring coworker and shared many words of wisdom to this new teacher. My condolences to you.

Kara Lantier

Max Heinegg

December 30, 2013

Ms. Walker (Pauline!) was my mentor, team leader, and next door neighbor at the Brooks Hobbs and Andrews middle schools for the first five years of my teaching career (1998-2003). After I moved to the high school, I still saw her frequently and we caught up when we could. She was a wonderful teacher, as well as my first and most formative mentor in teaching. Her students loved Trivia, and I can't tell you how many lunches we shared, as she dug into clam strip rolls, regaling me with her insights into the Sopranos. She taught me how to be a teaching professional, how to interact with parents, and how to keep a sense of humor in a stressful, but wonderful profession. She was a lovely person, and an extraordinarily positive influence on me.
Max Heinegg, Team 6A!

Katrina Smith

December 30, 2013

Dear Noralee and David:
I am so sorry that your mom is no longer with us. I agree with all these other entries -- she was truly extraordinary, and I will miss her.
I first met her when Noralee was apartment-hunting in New Haven before starting grad school. I remember standing in our kitchen talking, and Polly said something or other outrageous that I wasn't sure how to take; but as we talked more, it became clear that that was her sense of humor and way of making strangers feel comfortable. After the interview, my other roommate remarked, "Let's take Noralee as the third roommate. She's great, and her mom is a kick in the pants! It will be really fun!"
And so it was.
Much love to you both,

December 30, 2013

To Noralee and David,
Your mom was the best teacher I had at the Davenport School. It was great seeing her at band functions as we went through jr. and high school. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless.
Derek and Debbie Fitzgerald

December 29, 2013

Dearest David, Suzanne & family,
Your mother lives on through you. Your mother has given so much of herself to others and you do the same through your caring loving ways each and every day. You have been great friends through the years. Her love will shine on through you. May God bless Pauline, you and your family. Love & Prayers, Judy & Bill Kelley

Rosemarie Watt

December 29, 2013

Sunday,December 29, 2013

To David & Noralee,
Your mom was my Cooperating Teacher when I did my student teaching at the Fulton School. I learned so much from her while I was under her tutelage and her wit was unmatched.by all. When I would run into her along the years the conversation would always turn to you both , as she was so very proud. Your mom has touched so many countless lives in the city of Medford,it's now time for her to rest with the Angels. God Bless you both.

Bill Aulet

December 29, 2013

David,
Sorry to hear about your mother. Sounds like a great lady which is not surprising. As they say, acorns don't fall to far from the tree. Condolences to you and your family.
Best,
Bill Aulet

December 29, 2013

RIP Mrs. Walker. I loved you as my third-grade teacher at the Fulton School. I still talk about you as my favorite teacher of all time. You even invited me to watch you walk down the aisle on your wedding day. I will always remember you fondly.

George Sacco

December 29, 2013

What a special teacher......a special person .....we graduated MHS together I then had tpleasure of being on the School Board that hired Pauli! Prayers and Peace.........George Sacco

Lorraine Butler

December 28, 2013

I knew kids who had her at the Fulton school for 3rd grade they said she was a very good teacher

MaryAnn Bell

December 28, 2013

Dear Noralee and David, I taught with your Mom at the Forest Park School in Medford. At that time, she was an aide in a resource room. It was a difficult class, but your Mom was an exceptional person. She took some of the most difficult kids in that class and made a difference in their lives. Your Mom had an incredible sense of humor! She would take those troubled kids around the building, teaching them how to interact with others, teaching them basic life skills, along with being a kind and caring presence in their lives every day. She was a remarkable role model for them. She and I used to try to "catch each other" first......I would say "Hi Pauline" before she saw me first, or she would say "Hi MaryAnn" before I saw her first. It became a game, and once she left our school, this "game" continued for years at retirement parties and teachers' meetings. I feel as if I know you both, because she always told me about the both of you. The City of Medford has lost a fantastic teacher. She put her heart and soul into her job, and many students benefitted from her nurturing. Rest in peace Pauline. You were a wonderful colleague.

Elaine & Tracy Rumrill

December 27, 2013

She was such a wonderful person to talk too and she would listen to everything you had to say She will be greatly missed. Sorry for your loss.

Mrs. Walker and the Trojan Horse

December 27, 2013

Edward Walsh

December 27, 2013

To David and Noralee,
I have had the privilege of keeping your mothers classroom clean for the past five years, man, she had spunk! Always quick with a retort (usually physical violence) when I told her I was going to throw her horse away. She was a great woman I am going to miss her deeply, as are all of us at the Andrews Middle School. My wife met her only once, but once was enough, she absolutely adored her. Over vacations and on Sundays my son and I would come in and feed the fish in the various classrooms but we always had to stop into your moms room so he could look at all the projects (and the horse!). Your mother touched so many lives throughout her illustrious career that anyone who comes into that classroom who hasn't had the pleasure of knowing her truly has missed out of one fantastic teacher. As if I haven't gone on longenough!, a personal anecdote; I once joked with your mother saying the only reason why she taught social studies and ancient history was because when she was a kid it was current events, and I don't know how she kept a straight face but when she told me if I was ten feet closer she'd make me ancient history we both just started laughing so hard I knew she was something special! Good night Pauline rest peacefully, you have earned it, and if your horse stays in this school, no one is goin to touch it, I'll personally see to it. Noralee, David, my most sincere condolences.

December 27, 2013

Pauline Walker was the kind of Teacher a school Principal dreams about. I was fortunate to be her Principal from Elementary(gr.5) to Middle School(gr.6 team).She was also a good friend.She will be greatly missed.
Noralee and David my prayers are with you and the rest of your family.

Shirley Kountze, Andover, Ma.

December 27, 2013

Noralee and David, I hope reading these incredible testimonies of those who knew your mother, provide you with comfort and a smile. She was clearly a "gem" to all who knew her and had a character that no one will ever forget. As a nurse who treated her at Harvard Vanguard, she was the bright spot in my day. She will always be alive in our memories, and will always evoke a smile.

Kathleen Murphy-Garcia

December 27, 2013

Pauline Walker was a wonderful, kind friend and teacher. I was blessed to have her enter my life when I taught Kindergarten at the Brooks-Hobbs Magnet School. She also touched the lives of my two daughters while teaching them Social Studies.
Her love of Elvis, the sugar-cube castles, Trivia, and her love of the Christmas Revels are just a few memories. I will think of her warmly when I hear the song from the Lord of the Dance.
She was always there to listen and give advice. Medford was truly lucky to have her as a teacher. She was a true gift to the Medford Public School System.
Noralee and David, you are in my prayers.

Debbie Galvin Bourque

December 27, 2013

Noralee & David,
So sorry for your loss. Your mother was a wonderful woman and I have many memories of her from our high school days. I'll keep you both in my thoughts.

Andrea Twardzicki

December 27, 2013

Any reasonable teacher would hope to make a difference in the life of just one child and have that child name you as "the best teacher I ever had". Mrs. Walker was that teacher to dozens (if not hundreds) of children in Medford.

Pauline, you taught Medford's children well, but you also taught your colleagues about what a teacher should be. I can think of several lessons that you have passed on to your fellow teachers, and I hope that I can make you proud by improving every day and trying to reach the bar that you set so high.

Kimberley Hurdle and Brenda Palacios

December 27, 2013

Our condolences to David and Noralee: Ms. Walker was an amazing teacher. Looking back at the memorable sixth grade class she taught, the nickle questions, and even calling David to say Happy Birthday; Ms. Walker was the teacher that helped everyone come together and join as a family with her cheerful and comical personality from day 1 to the very last day. Looking back now as we are seniors, the friends we made in her class and homeroom are still the friends we will be graduating with and that is all because Ms. Walker constantly put others first and was so loving. Our thoughts and prayers go to David and Noralee. She will truly be missed by many. Rest in Peace.

Jane Pompeo

December 27, 2013

Noralee and David ("John").I am so sad and sorry for you both. She truly was a kind, generous and loving woman, the best teacher my son Benjamin ever had, and an adventure lover, especially on a horse or at the President's Inauguration. She will be missed.
Jane Pompeo

Joe Hannaford

December 27, 2013

To the family of Pauline Walker—
I had the privilege of being one of her students for both 3rd and 4th grade at the Fulton School in No. Medford, 1964-66. She was one of my most memorable teachers. A wonderful personality, funny, and always encouraging. She was a shining example for the teaching profession.

Elizabeth Leary

December 27, 2013

Mrs. Walker was the best teacher I ever had and ever will have. She will be greatly missed. With love and prayers,

The Evers'

December 27, 2013

Sorry for your loss. The kids lost an amazing teacher. She will be greatly missed.

Laurie Wasserman

December 27, 2013

David and Noralee, We have lost a friend, a colleague, a family member and a teacher to so many in Medford. There isn't one person who knew your mom that doesn't have a "Ms. Walker story." She was my sidekick and my friend, and she will be missed by all of us.
Hugs, Prayers and Love to you,
Laurie "Wasserperson"

Bill Boyd

December 27, 2013

David and Noralee: Words can't begin to express the profound sorrow I have for your Mom. She was truly one of a kind. I have fond memories from our days in the Medford High School. She really enjoyed supporting all of our band members and the music program, but, most importantly, was very supportive to both of you with your pursuits. Prayers and blessings to you and your Mom during this holiday season.

Maureen McGunigle

December 27, 2013

David ~ Please know that you and your family have my most heartfelf condolence's during this difficult time. May your memories bring you peace and comfort in the days and weeks ahead. With deepest sympathy

Lena Scott

December 27, 2013

Dave, I am sorry sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. With sincere sympathy.

Nancy Preziosi Blanton

December 27, 2013

I am deeply saddened to hear about Ms. Walker. She was my 6th grade teacher, a devoted, caring, lovely person, and a lot of fun! I will always remember the wonderful times in her classroom, as well as the life lessons she subtly taught me.
David and Noralee – please accept my deepest sympathy.

Penny Donovan (Zelandi)

December 27, 2013

Mrs Walker my third grade teacher in the mid-seventies. I was a very timid girl and had been bossed around at recess by another girl in class and bullied into doing some of her homework in second grade and the beginning of third grade. Shortly after third grade began Mrs. Walker asked me if I was doing the other girl's homework and out of fear I denied it. She took my desk and dumped it onto the floor revealing some of the other girl's work I had done. From that moment on, Mrs. Walker saw to it that I was not in the same class as the other girl (she switched her into the other class!!! to my absolute delight and relief) and that I was not to be in the same recess as the other girl and couldn't sit with her at lunch. I have a lot of backbone today but back then when I didn't Mrs. Walker was not only my teacher but my protector and she taught me that someone was looking out for me. God bless her and may she rest in sweet eternal peace.

Dennis Morse

December 27, 2013

David and Noralee, so sorry for your loss. Your mother was just what I needed back in 3rd grade and I was lucky enough to be able to become friends with you guys as well. She was very proud of you both, and what a legacy to have brought up two great kids.

Cheryl Woodbury

December 27, 2013

Mrs. Walker was my 3rd grade teacher many, many moons ago at the Davenport School up on Fulton Heights. She was one of the best teachers I had growing up. I was painfully shy and she was able to get me to come out of my shell. So glad that she had so many years to help teach and mold so many students. My condolences to her family and friends. She will be sorely missed.

Betty Matta

December 27, 2013

Pauline Sullivan was my third grade teacher at the Fulton School. When I became a teacher, I substituted in Mrs. Walker's classroom at the Davenport School, and later became her colleague at the Brooks/Hobbs and Andrews Middle Schools. We attended Boston Symphony Orchestra Concerts together, where she gave me lessons about the music we were enjoying. She spoke at my retirement party, while she continued to teach. She was my teacher, my colleague, and my friend, and I will miss her.

“May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.” (Irish Blessing)

Patty Mazzola

December 27, 2013

My sincere condolences to the Walker family. Ms. Walker was an extraordinary teacher. I was lucky enough to have her as my 3rd and 6th grade teacher at the Davenport School. She truly was the "cream of the crop".

Chinyere Nwabeke

December 27, 2013

Ms. Walker was one of the most memorable teachers I have ever had. She had a great energy about her that I will never forget. Deepest condolences to her family and all her loved ones. She had a beautiful soul and she will be greatly missed.

Maureen Taranto-Pyatt

December 26, 2013

My dear Noralee,
You and your mother had such a beautiful bond--such a lovely woman, with such a lovely daughter. My prayers go out to you and your family.

Gina Colby

December 26, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was a lovely woman. Lots of good memories from band days at the high school. She always had a smile on her face at every event. All my love David and Noralee.

tanya c

December 26, 2013

Im so sad to hear of your passing, I have wonderful memories of my childhood and you played a big part!!! Some people spend their entire lives seeking their calling, but you clearly found yours!!! May you rest in peace having clearly fulfilled your calling.

Courtney Burpee

December 26, 2013

Mrs. Walker I cant believe you are really gone you were such a strong woman and the best social studies teacher ever ! Im going to miss you so mych not even three weeks ago I went to go visit you ,but you were out sick I love you mrs walker fly in paradise well meet again someday

Sandi-Jo Malmon and Beth Levin

December 26, 2013

Sincere condolences to Noralee and David. I adored your mom! In her final days I promised her I would keep practicing! I will think of her often - especially when I am making music! She inspired me with her candor and humor.
May the warm memories of her be a blessing to you always.

Julia Yanakopulos

December 26, 2013

On behalf of the Yanakopulos family, I'd like to wish my sincere condolences to Pauline's family. My two sisters and I had the honor of being Pauline's sixth grade history students at the Brooks Hobbs in Medford. She was an amazing person, and definitely one of the best teachers I've ever had. May she rest in peace. She won't be forgotten!

Rebecca Jackson

December 26, 2013

My condolences to the Walker family. She was an unforgettable teacher.

Michael Fenn

December 26, 2013

Ms. Walker was the best teacher i have ever had, she was inspiring and she was very devoted to her students. She did what she loved for her life and is an inspiration.

Stanley Silverman

December 26, 2013

My sincere condolences to my friend and colleague, Noralee, and to her entire family. I met Mrs. Walker several years ago when she attended a performance of "A Christmas Carol" at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly (I was the onstage violinist), and we immediately became friends. She was truly very special, and I will always remember her with much love and admiration.

Kathy Boyd Gobiel

December 26, 2013

Condolences to Noralee and David! Fond memories of your mother from good old band days! She was one of a kind.. You are in my thoughts and prayers

Maria Carmona

December 26, 2013

Ms. Walker: You were the most amazing teacher I ever had. Allof us at AMS will miss you and you will forever be in our hearts!

Gerry Daley

December 26, 2013

In loving memory of a wonderful colleague of great humor and even greater kindness. She was all a teacher and a loving human being should be.

Debbie LaConte

December 26, 2013

Pauline was an icon at the Brooks School. She was a very funny, caring, loving friend, colleague, and excellent teacher. She will be missed by many! Rest in peace.

December 26, 2013

Noralee and David, I was so sad to hear of your mother's passing- she was such a wonderful and fun person and teacher. I will always remember my days as principal of the Andrews and the role she played in helping us open the new school. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ralph Watson

December 26, 2013

Our condolences to David and Noralee.Your Mom was a lovely person. From the Stagliano family

Martha Lagace

December 26, 2013

Sincere condolences to Noralee and David, to the family, and to the generations of children fortunate to have had Pauline Walker as their teacher.

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