Obituary of Mary J. Walker

Mary J. (“Sis” Hansen) Walker passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on May 16, 2025 following a brief illness.

Born on March 26, 1939 in Troy, NY to the late Frances (Mossey) Brenz and George Hansen. Mary was a resident of Troy for most of her life.  She married her high school sweetheart Charles “Cha” Walker on 4/22/57. Mary was predeceased by her husband Charles “Cha” Walker in 2020 and by her brother, Tim Hansen.

She is survived by her four children Debbie (Bob Krogh), Dan (Rosa), Mary Beth Fluewelling (Jim), and Charles “Cha” III (Tricia); nine grandchildren; and five great grandchildren. She is also survived by several cousins and nieces and a nephew.

She worked for the NYS Civil Service, where she retired after many years of service and with many long lasting friendships. She was especially grateful for her lifelong bond with Nancy Abrams and Jeannie Nolan.

Mary loved basking in the sun, spending her days at the pool, playing bingo, cards, and karaoke. Her sense of humor and her love for gab were gifts that she shared with others throughout her life. 

Mary was one of South Troy & St. Joe’s biggest fans as she supported her husband Cha’s many football, basketball, and baseball teams during the early period of their 63-year marriage. You would often see (and hear) Mary sitting front and center cheering on the teams and making the refs squirm as she questioned their calls.  With Mary it was always “South Troy Against the World”.

After retiring, Mary and Cha moved to Barefoot Bay, FL, where they made many friends. Mary and Cha loved spending time at the bingo hall, with Cha calling the games and Mary playing to win. She always enjoyed being around friends and was very often the life of the party, especially when she would perform her favorite karaoke tune, “These Boots Are Made For Walking”, and wear her “Proud Mary” hat.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Mary and Cha’s life with their family on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 from 4-7p.m. at the Wm. Leahy Funeral Home, 336 Third St. in Troy where at 6:30 p.m. a Funeral Service will be offered by Deacon Charles Wojton.

A private committal service for Mary and Cha will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Troy with military honors.

Donations in Mary’s memory can be made to Disabled American Veterans or the American Legion.

Please feel free to view the Memorial Video or offer your on-line Condolences by using those tabs on this website.