Jean Eileen Walkama, known to many as Jeanie, passed away peacefully at her home up Johns River on Feb. 28, 2025, at the age of 86. She was born on January 25, 1939, in Aberdeen, Washington, to Earl and Ellen Flowers.
Growing up in the town of Western (Johns River), Jeanie was a country girl at heart, spending her childhood climbing trees, running wild, and creating lifelong memories with her nieces and nephews. She attended Ocosta School and enjoyed activities like berry picking, swimming in the Johns River, and spending time with her beloved nieces — Ginger Carter, Eilene Flinn and Beth Hathaway.
Jeanie married William Doyle in 1961, and together they raised two sons, Richard and Brian. Their home was filled with motorbike rides, family picnics, and community gatherings. Jeanie was an unwavering presence in her sons’ lives, always there to support and encourage them, particularly in their athletic pursuits. She was a proud mother and loved watching her boys grow into the men they are today.
In 1987, Jeanie married the love of her life, William Walkama, on Valentine’s Day at her sister Peggy’s home, out North River. On that day she gained four more children; Patty Hendrickson, Debbie Wakefield, Gary Walkama and Martan Walkama, whom she loved as her own. She cherished her extended family and always made everyone feel welcome in her heart.
Jeanie and Bill built a life filled with love, adventure, and shared projects, including the restoration of their float shack at North River. They also constructed several outbuildings together and miles of trails on their family property, which the family continues to enjoy today. Jeanie was particularly fond of nature, feeding and watching hummingbirds and songbirds for decades. She had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed planting fruit trees, which she tended to with care and harvested the fruits of her labor.She enjoyed finding bargains in the Little Nickel.
Jeanie’s passion for bowling was a defining part of her life. She was afraid to fly, unless … you guessed it, it involved bowling. Her enthusiasm for the sport was contagious, and she cherished the camaraderie of her bowling buddies.
She was employed for many years at Ocean Spray, where she developed deep friendships with her coworkers.
Jeanie and Bill traveled extensively, making numerous trips to Alaska and across the country. Jeanie was a Mariner fan going to games with family especially with her sister Betty, sharing in the joy of the game and the laughter they shared.
Jeanie had a contagious smile and an infectious laugh that lit up the world around her. She adored her 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She was also a lover of dogs, with her last furry companion, Fanny Girl, holding a special place in her heart.
Jeanie is survived by her beloved husband of 39 years, William Walkama, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, stepchildren, step-grandchildren and great-stepgrandchildren: Richard Doyle (Jeanie), Gessica Chase (Jason) Kanon, Barrett; Alyssa Kay (Kris) Rylie, Kaiden, Jace; Vanessa Doyle (Jace Bullington); Emily Schumacher (Tyler); Scotty Johnson. Brian Doyle (Lily). Patty Hendrickson (Dan) Hilary Barraza (Alex) Arabella, Brielle, Alex; Debbie Wakefield (John) April Lowry (Mitch), Briana McGinnity (Cory) Sadie; Gary Walkama (Vonda), Annie Nast (Brandon) Teddy; Angela Autrey (Brent) Axel, Avery; Vonda Leyva (Oscar) Dahlia, Sebastian and Martan Walkama (Carol) Zara.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Willam Doyle, her brother, Jack Flowers, and her sisters Wilma (Betty) Williams and Peggy Smith.
A special thanks to the hospice nurses, Sarah and Deni, and her grandniece, Stephanie Williams, who provided care and comfort during her final days.
Jeanie’s love for her family, her infectious joy, and her unwavering strength will be remembered forever. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her. May she rest in peace.
A celebration of life will be held later this summer.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary
