Walder Charles May

'Walder Charles May, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, at Snow Canyon Retirement Community, surrounded by family. He was a man of dedication, quiet strength, and unwavering love.

Walder was born on October 20, 1934, in Orange, California. He grew up in Compton, California where he developed love of cars, boating, scouts, and camping. These early passions shaped his sense of adventure, curiosity, and resourcefulness. These traits that stayed with him throughout his life. In his twenties, he was baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a decision that brought direction and purpose to his life.

Later, he met Carolyn Massey, at a church dance, where his smooth dancing skills and his kind, persistent charm quickly won her over. Their connection grew into an eternal partnership, and on April 30, 1960, they were sealed for time and all eternity in Los Angeles Temple, Los Angeles, California. Together, they built a life and raised a family built a life centered on faith, hard work, and deep devotion to their family.

Walder and Carolyn moved to St. George, Utah, in 1967 and in no time became well known in the St. George community as the longtime owners of May Flowers, a cherished flower shop in the historic district. For 27 years, they poured their hearts into their business before retiring, in 1993, to Winchester Hills, Utah, where they enjoyed a quieter life surrounded by the desert landscape they loved.

Walder was a devoted father to Heather (Charles) Schwartz and David May, grandfather to Tatiana (Ben) Peterson, Jaedon (Kaylee) Schwartz, Emeric Schwartz, and Lorelei Schwartz, and great-grandfather to three great-grandsons. His family was always a great joy and source of pride, and he supported them in every chapter of their lives.

Walder had many interests and hobbies over the years. He enjoyed model trains, dabbled in magic shows, and spent meaningful time engaged in Ham radio. His fascination with Ham Radio communication extended to his community service as a dedicated member of the Dixie Amateur Radio Club and part of the Church of Jesus Christ Emergency Network Alert System, something he took great pride in to support and protect others in possible case of emergency.

Walder is preceded in death by his parents, Louise and Claude May, and his brother, Dale May.

Those who knew Walder will remember him for his gentle humor, his steadfast reliability, and the quiet, thoughtful way he cared for the people around him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.