Celebrate the life of Walter Jestings, share a kind memory, or find funeral service details courtesy of Roswell Funeral Home.
Walter James Jestings passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2, 2025, aged 92, surrounded by loved ones and beloved music. Born on February 3, 1933, to Charles Stewart Jestings Sr. and Christie Gertrude Jestings, in Newport, Rhode Island, a place still treasured by his family.
Walter was deeply loved and will be missed by his three children:
He is survived by grandchildren Madison Collins (John Collins), Alexandria Brown, Dezmond Brown, Luke Phillips, and great-grandchildren Walter Collins, Ollie Collins, and Cormac Collins, who affectionately called him Grandpa Wallet and Popqua. Numerous nieces and nephews from Newport and beyond also remember him fondly.
Walter graduated top of his class from the University of Rhode Island and devoted his professional life to civil engineering and bridge design. He ended his career as Chief of the Bridge Bureau, earning respect from employers and colleagues for his fairness, respectfulness, and unmatched work ethic.
Walter was happily married to his hometown sweetheart, Sallye Ann Kendall, for 47 years until her passing in 1996. The couple lived in Newport, RI, Columbus, OH, and later Atlanta, GA.
Walter was described by those who worked with him as "fair, respectful, and with a work ethic that rivaled no other."
Author's summary: Walter Jestings led a life marked by dedication to family, a respected engineering career, and heartfelt connections that spanned generations and cities.