Walter J. Sunderlin

Walter J. Sunderlin died November 16, 2025, after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn of the home, a daughter Celine Gasco and her husband Scott residing in Florida, a son Russell Sunderlin living in Spartanburg, SC, a brother Guy Sunderlin of Blanco, Texas, three stepchildren, Pamela Price (husband Mark) of Boiling Springs, SC, Heidi Vassey (husband Clay), of Boiling Springs, NC, and Jesse Roeker, of Boiling Springs, SC, and his mother-in-law, Rosemary Howarth of Inman, SC. After marrying Marilyn, he became the beloved “Papa Walter” to seven grandchildren, Heather Olmstead, Brandon Price (deceased), Chelsea Morgan (husband Steve), Casey Quinn (wife Amber), Nick, Madison, Tristan, and Kalie, and seven great-grandchildren, Landon, Bryson, Collin, Stephen, Kate, Scarlett, and Kole, as well as two nieces and two nephews.

He was a proud graduate of University of Texas at Austin. He was a member of Gramling Methodist Church where he served as a liturgist and a member of the “ten-ten” Sunday School Class, as well as a member of the “TMG” Thursday Morning Men’s Group at Westminster Presbyterian Church.

He loved traveling and dancing with Marilyn, spending time with family and friends, and loved the game of golf which he called a “game of honor, the only game in which you call a penalty on yourself.”

Walter was a remarkable man whose presence made the world gentler, brighter, and undeniably more meaningful. He was full of life and an endlessly generous in spirit, and leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and quiet strength that will continue to guide all who knew him.

Walter carried with him an uncommon kindness—an open-hearted way of moving through the world that made people feel seen, heard, and valued. Everyone was drawn to his calm presence and the ease with which he offered comfort and understanding.

Spiritual at his core, Walter lived with an awareness that life was bigger than any of us. His faith —quiet but steadfast—shaped his choices and relationships. Honor was the compass he lived by, and integrity followed him into every room. Those who were blessed to know him will remember his laughter and warmth. He was a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, and loyal friend

The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Floyd's Greenlawn Chape. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2025, at Gramling Methodist Church,14941 Asheville Hwy, Campobello, SC 29322 conducted by the Rev. Rick Brown. Burial will be in Gramling Methodist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gramling Methodist Church.