Walter "Wally" Price

AGE: 85 • Tinton Falls

Walter Wallace Price, 85, of Seabrook Village in Tinton Falls, NJ, was called Home to the Lord peacefully on Sunday, September 24, 2017. Wally was born in Johnson City, N.Y. and raised in Pottstown, PA. Wally and his wife Dolores (Dolly) raised their family in Union, N.J. before moving to Seabrook Village 17 years ago, to enjoy their retirement years and to be closer to their children, and beloved grandchildren.

Walter and Dolores were high school sweethearts, having attended their senior prom together; they married and became "Wally and Dolly" in 1953, and began 63 beautiful years together. Walter earned degrees from West Chester University in Music and Education, as well as his Masters of Education from Temple University. After a brief stint in South Carolina, they moved to New Jersey, where Wally was a Professor at Kean University in the Music Department, for 34 enriching years, having the ability to impact numerous students with his love and passion for music. The foundation of Wally's existence was his family, faith and music.

Wally was the most kind and gentle soul, which was never more evident than in the special bond he shared with his eldest daughter, Roxanne, who had Down Syndrome. He was her beacon of light and she would anxiously await his return home from work every day. When recently asked of his fondest memories, Wally recalled the unpretentious and purest moments with Roxanne like simply swinging her in his arms or singing with her. He totally dedicated himself to all aspects of his children's lives, watching his other daughter, Stephanie at her numerous twirling performances and dance recitals, or cheering his son, David on the football field, coaching, carpooling, or simply being present for all of life's big and small moments. Wally's love of all family, including his many extended family members, was unconditional.

Wally's passion was music and he participated in, or conducted every musical venue imaginable, ranging from orchestra, jazz and marching bands, and school and church choirs. In his earlier years, he was very active in religious functions, church leadership and leading youth ministry. Later, he was very involved in the Seabrook Protestant Ministry and Protestant Choir, where he served as Council President and Director. He was a very active member of Silvertones singing group, which entertained regularly at campus events. He often worshipped nearby in Ocean Grove's Great Auditorium and the St Paul's United Methodist Church, where he also participated in the Oratorio Choir and Annual Choir Festivals. Every Sunday in church, his beautiful tenor voice could be heard singing hymns. He even was dubbed "King of Hearts" at a recent Seabrook event at which he wooed all with a rendition of "I Love You Truly," the song he sang to Dolly at their wedding. 

Wally left an indelible imprint on the lives of all he came in contact with, but especially with those of his children and grandchildren. His faithful, enthusiastic and constant support continued through the years with their various sporting events. One could certainly hear Wally cheering on his grandkids from the sidelines with that booming and positive voice. Whether it be baseball or soccer games, dance recitals, church or school-related milestones, his support and presence was certainly heard and appreciated. Even during his later years, when he physically was unable to be present at all their events, his first line of questioning was always related to his grandkids' activities and well-being. Wally was a fan of all sports, but by far, his all-time favorite team was undoubtedly the New York Yankees, and never missed a game.

Wally had an extremely big, loving, and merry heart and he endeared himself to everyone he met. Whether that be a stranger sitting next to him at a game, the visitor at church, his social circle or aides at Seabrook, or even a convenience store clerk, Wally's sweet disposition and genuinely friendly demeanor charmed one and all. He was a true gentleman in every sense of the word.

Wally is survived by his loving children, daughter, Stephanie Baird and her husband Dale of Manalapan, NJ; his son, David Price and his wife Kristin of Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ; and his beloved grandchildren, Christopher and David Baird, and Sarah, Susannah, and Luke Price; and his youngest brother, James Price. Wally was predeceased by his parents Walter and Loretta, his wife Dolores, his daughter Roxanne, brother Robert, and sister Pamla.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation that will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2017 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM in the Town Square Atrium at Seabrook Village in Tinton Falls, NJ. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in Wally's memory may be made to the Special Olympics of New Jersey, 1 Eunice Shriver Kennedy Way, Lawrenceville, N.J. 08648. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.bongarzonefuneralhome.com

Published in Asbury Park Press from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, 2017