The House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Honorable Mary Louise Walter of Westerly. Mary Louise Walter was a cherished individual who grew up in Pawcatuck, attended local schools, and married her high school sweetheart, Ronald Walter, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. She was a dedicated mother to her daughters, Susan and Raeann, and took pride in creating a warm and beautiful home. Her hobbies included making baskets, painting, sewing, and gardening, and she was skilled in making high-quality clothing for her daughters.

Beyond her family life, Mary Louise Walter was an active community member and public servant. She taught preschool, volunteered in various capacities, and owned a bookstore. Her political career included serving as a Dunn’s Corners Tax Collector and as a member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives from 1984 to 1998, representing District 51 in Westerly. She was well-respected by her peers and served on the Corporations Committee and the Joint Committee on Environment and Energy. In her leisure time, she was a loving grandmother and great-grandmother who enjoyed family activities and was a devout Christian. The resolution concludes with the House extending its condolences to her family and directing the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies of the resolution to her daughters and their families.