Roger E. Walters 1955-2026
DAVENPORT, Fla. — Roger Ervin Walters, 70, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at Lake Nona Veterans Medical Center in Orlando, Florida, with his beloved wife, Rosalee Jean Alley Walters by his side.
Roger and Rosalee shared 50 years of marriage, having been united on Nov. 8, 1975.
Roger was born Feb. 6, 1955, in Wichita Falls, Texas, and later lived in Girard, where he graduated from Liberty High School in 1973.
Following high school, he worked at Garland Welding before beginning a long and honorable career of service to his country.
In 1975, Roger enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for 20 years, retiring in 1995 as a senior master sergeant. He was highly respected for his leadership and dedication, earning four Meritorious Service Medals, five Air Force Commendation Medals, one Air Force Achievement Medal and the Lieutenant General Howard W. Leaf Inspector General Award. He was especially proud to receive a Hero Award presented by his two sons, reflecting both his service and the example he set as a father.
After military retirement, Roger worked at General Motors from 1995 to 2011, including time on the Toyota Project and later as second shift quality manager.
From 2011 to 2023, Roger and Rosalee traveled full-time across the country in their RV, visiting 49 states and Hawaii. During this time, Roger enjoyed photography, particularly capturing wildlife and natural landscapes. In 2023, they settled in Davenport, Florida.
Roger was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who deeply cherished his family. He is survived by his wife, Rosalee Walters; his mother, Viola Walters; his sons, David (Lori) Walters and Benjamin (Leah) Walters; his grandchildren, Dakota, Sierra and Kendle; his great-grandson, Isaac; his brothers, Kenneth and Edward Walters; and his sister, Diane Reiden.
Roger was a man of God whose faith quietly guided his life and values. He was known for his integrity, humility and compassion, and he lived with a deep sense of responsibility to his family, his country and others.
Roger will be remembered for his honorable military service, his devotion to family and the steady principles by which he lived, and will be deeply missed.
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