Vendla Kay Walsh

Vendla Kay Shouse Walsh, 83, passed away peacefully and went to be with our Lord and Savior on May 2, 2026, in Sun City, Arizona. Born on November 30, 1942, in Hugo, Colorado, she was the eldest of four children to John Archie Shouse (1912 – 1968) and Isabel Elizabeth Sutliff Shouse (1924 – 1971). She lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and generosity.

A devoted member of the Southern Baptist community, Vendla’s unwavering love for God was a cornerstone of her life. Her faith guided her actions and inspired those around her. She found joy and purpose in helping others and was known for her generous spirit.

Vendla cherished her family above all else. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to their happiness and well-being. Her love for them was boundless, and she took immense pride in being a constant source of support and encouragement.

An avid seamstress with a passion for sewing and quilting, Vendla created beautiful works that reflected her creativity and attention to detail. She also enjoyed reading, finding solace and inspiration in the written word. She was also an avid fan of NASCAR; she loved watching her races every weekend.

Vendla was preceded in death by her beloved sisters Marilyn Faye Shouse Hendrickson (1946 – 2015) and Margaret (Peggy) Ray Shouse Merklin (1944 – 2025), son-in-law Phillip Humphries (1953 – 2022) a grandson, granddaughter, and great grandson. Though they are no longer with us, their memories remain cherished by those who knew them.

Vendla is survived by her loving husband, Jon T. Walsh and her faithful emotional support dog, Mystix; her brother Johnny Lawrence Shouse (Donna) of Thornton, Colorado; her children Carla Humphries (Phillip) of Greenville, Texas; Elizabeth Catricala (William) of Waddell, Arizona; Diana Ramirez (Andy) of Albuquerque, New Mexico; John Lightle (Jacqueline) of Fredericksburg, Virginia; and Clayton Bowers (Jennifer) of Evans, Georgia ; two brothers-in-law, Marlin Merklin (Margaret) of Hutchinson, Kansas and David Hendrickson (Marilyn) of Crawfordsville, Indiana; cousins Ruby Nobel (Arlen), Debbie Hollett Lessly (Terry), Duane Glover (Diane), Janice Brumagin, Woody Cummins; cousins once removed Karen Fitch and Kyle Fitch; several nieces and nephews; 19 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

The family plans to hold a Celebration of Life and inurnment at her final resting place at the National Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Phoenix, Arizona later in the year.

Vendla’s legacy is one of love, faith, and selflessness. Her memory will forever be a source of comfort to those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in peace.