Sharon Susan Walker

1938 - 2025

Sharon Susan Walker

April 21, 1938 - December 23, 2025

Modesto, California - Sharon "Susan" Walker passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, in Hughson, California, at the age of 87.

Susan was born on April 21, 1938, in Modesto, California, to Alfonse and Mary Bonales. She was raised in Tuolumne where she graduated from high school in 1956 before moving to the Modesto area. She was a proud resident of the area, having lived in Modesto for more than 65 years.

Susan dedicated her life to education and service. She was a beloved teacher at James Marshall Elementary School in Modesto, where she taught for 40 years and touched the lives of countless students and families. She also taught Catechism at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church for several years. Her love for children extended beyond the classroom, as she also served as a Brownie Troop leader, mentoring and encouraging young girls with patience and kindness.

A woman of deep faith, Susan's Catholic beliefs were central to her life and guided her values, compassion, and generosity toward others. In her free time, she found joy in gardening, traveling, caring for her beloved pets, and shopping-an activity she truly enjoyed. Above all, Susan cherished family, children, and the opportunity to teach and nurture others.

Susan is survived by her loving daughter, Laura Cornell (Brandon), and her treasured grandson, Samuel Cornell, who brought her immense pride and joy. She also leaves behind a niece in Southern California and a nephew along with his wife and two children in Walnut Creek along with countless friends who became like family that would affectionately refer to her as Nonie or MeMa.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 57 years, Harley Walker, as well as three siblings and her parents.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 7, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the Rosary beginning at 6:00 p.m., at Franklin & Downs Funeral Home in Modesto. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 8, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, located at 709 J Street, Modesto.

Donations in Susan's memory may be made to Community Hospice.

Susan will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her lifelong dedication to children and education, and the kindness she shared with everyone she met.