Stella Marie Walters - Obituary

tella "Terra" Walters The world became less bright and colorful with the sudden passing of Stella Jefferson Walters on Feb. 2, 2018. Although she lived 77 fantastic years, she died far too soon. Instead of focusing on the day she died, she would have wanted us to focus on the 28,121 days of love, laughter, and friendship she brought to our lives. Stella Walters, who went by the name of Terra, took the world by storm. After growing up in Eden, North Carolina, she took her ear for language and penchant for prose to UNC-Greensboro to complete undergraduate studies in English. Upon graduating, she embarked on a career that was as multi-faceted as her personality. Terra was, at various times, a journalist, a teacher, a writer, a restaurant critic, a museum docent, an editor, and a surgery center manager. No matter what job Terra held, she excelled and exuded passion for the work. Her first job out of college was teaching at the Marjorie Walters School for Gifted Children in New Orleans. It was there that Terra met Richard Walters, and they quickly bonded over a shared love of fine automobiles. They spent their years together traveling the world, collecting art, and raising their feline “children.” Eventually, Terra and Richard settled in Annapolis and worked in the D.C. area—he at the Department of Labor and she as a teacher at Fort Hunt Elementary School. No matter where Terra lived, though, she always referred to New Orleans as home. She left the Big Easy, but it never truly left her. Her vibrancy and zeal for life were evident to everyone she met. One of her many remarkable gifts was the ability to connect with anyone, no matter their age or situational background. Her light drew people near, and her story-telling ability would keep us chuckling for days. Her genuine interest in the people she met and the rare ability to make them feel like a million dollars cemented friendships. Her sharp mind and equally sharp wit would have an audience laughing out loud. We will not forget Terra’s kindness and generosity bestowed upon those in her path. We smile in remembrance of her fondness of New Orleans, French cuisine, fine art, fast cars, and festive socks…and how the phrase “very unique” filled this polished grammar scholar with abhorrence. Terra was predeceased by her husband Richard Walters and her parents Bethel and Elizabeth Jefferson. She is survived by her extended family, numerous friends, and two cats, Kayah and Remy. She leaves behind a considerable accumulation of original literary work and a myriad grieving hearts, a true testament to her life and legacy. Family and friends will hold a celebration of Terra Walters' life at the Laurel Grove Inn, 2881 South Haven Drive, Annapolis, MD on April 28 at 1:00 P.M. Donations in her memory should be made to Cure SMA. Please take a moment to leave a condolence by using the link to the left.