Eleanor M. Walsh

Eleanor Marie Walsh, age 88, went peacefully and happily into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, May 1, 2022. She was welcomed by her husband of 66 years, David "Jay" Walsh, her parents Marshall and Vesta Reed, three brothers Rex, Jimmy, & Chuck Reed, and two grandchildren Krista and Jonathon Zylstra. She is survived by her 7 children: Doug (Deb) Walsh, Linda (Brian) Zylstra, Debbie (George) Collins, Phil Walsh, Sheryl (Dave) Marshall, Shelley Barker and Diane (Dave) Ford, 41 grandchildren, 83 great-grandchildren, and siblings Howard (Shirley) Reed, Irene Kalanbach, Maxine (Fred) Carlson & Harold Reed. "El", as many people called her, was born January 22, 1934 in Jasper Michigan. Her family later moved to Michigan’s upper peninsula where she attended and graduated from Newberry High School. She went on to get her RN at West Suburban Hospital School of Nursing in Oak Park, Illinois. After giving her life to the Lord at a young age, she never wavered in her commitment to Him. She lived a humble and faithful life of service on the mission field of Bangladesh where she and her husband served for 35 years. She was a huge source of support to him along with tirelessly raising their 7 children. Her gift of hospitality was used to house and provide meals for many, her nursing skills to care for others, and her talents as a pianist to teach lessons to many of the missionary kids. As an accomplished pianist (and accordion player), she loved to worship the Lord playing hymns, accompany her husband as he played the harmonica, and offer her musical skills where needed. She also loved to read, do puzzles, and collect dolls. Her worldwide travels gained her many friends who were very special to her! One of her greatest accomplishments was being a prayer warrior for her family who she loved dearly! She prayed daily for each of her seven children and their families after assigning each a day of the week. Her husband considered her one of the wisest women he knew. She was never afraid to speak truth (whether you wanted to hear it or not)! Her life was committed to loving her Lord and serving Him in a practical hands-on manner. Visitation will be held on Monday, May 9 at Oak Hill Church, 1930 Leonard St., Grand Rapids MI from 6 to 8 PM and again on Tuesday, May 10 from 10 AM until time of service at 11 AM with Pastor Jeff Carlson officiating. Interment will be in the East Lakefield Township Cemetery, McMillan, Michigan at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to LIVE global, PO Box 8585, Harrisburg, PA 17105. Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.