Our favorite gardener Peggy's legacy is in the soil, the blooms, and in the hearts of those who knew her. We will forever remember her spirit, laughter, and love of life.
Her Life
It is with a sad heart that we announce that Peggy Walters, 73, of Easton-Fresno passed peacefully surrounded by her family on March 4, 2025.
Born on January 31, 1952 in Fresno, to Phillip and Vivian Walters, she grew up in Easton and graduated from Washington Union High School. After high school, she married her high school sweetheart David Mendes. Although their marriage ended in 1983, they remained friends.
She began her 30-year career with the IRS in Fresno, then joining the U.S. Forest Service where she worked on the Inyo, San Bernardino, and Sequoia National Forests. She retired in 2010, moving to Tulare to be closer to family.
Peggy, AKA Bird, was a passionate person whose kind, cheerful nature rubbed off onto everyone she met. She loved to watch her 49ers and Cowboys play football, garden while loudly listening to classic rock and spend time with her family and friends. Peggy was calm, free-spirited, and always brightened up our days.
When our Dad was ill late in life, Peggy stepped up to care for him giving our Dad the most beautiful last 6 years of his life years and as a family we are forever grateful.
In 2019, her beautiful whimsical garden was on tour with the Valley Oak Garden Club in Tulare. It was truly enjoyed by all and was one of her proudest and happiest moments. Besides her beautiful yard, Peggy loved to over decorate for each and every holiday
including football season.
Peggy is survived by her family of four sisters, Shirley Smart, Connie (Dave) Relph, Diane Walters, Ida (Steve) Pratt; and one brother Mike (Melissa) Walters; nieces Kerrie (Ernie) Reusch, Kinsie (Joe) Henrich, Kristina Widman, Maycie Walters; nephews Kevin (Tracy) Smart, Kyler Pratt, Maverick Walters; great nephews Brenden Reusch, Christian Reusch; and great nieces Kennadee Henrich and Johanna Henrich.
She joins her parents, brother-in-law Walter Smart, and nephew Miles Walters in heaven.
She always was Aunt Peggy to all and they gave her so much joy in life.
Friends and family are welcome to join us as we share memories of Peggy on April 27, 2025 from 1-4 pm at 564 Ranch Acres Road in Tulare, CA
Memories of Peggy
Below, Peggy's family has created a place where you can share memories and photos of Peggy. We've also shared some of the sweet memories that we have with her, along with pictures of her beloved garden. Thank you for loving Peggy so deeply, we are blessed by the stories that friends and family have shared since her passing.
Peggy's Life
Photos
Share a Memory
Family Tree
1892-1972
1905-1971
1901-1974
1907-2003
1927-2010
Peggy's Favorites
Celebration of Life
