Walter Flegler Jr.

Walter Flegler Jr., 88, departed this life surrounded by his loving family on Friday, March 27, 2020 at his home in New Haven, CT. Walter was born on August 8, 1931, one of nine children, to the late Walter Flagler Sr. and Rebecca (Wilson) Flagler in Hemingway, SC. He was married to the late Willa Mae (Cooper) Flegler for 63 years. Walter was educated in the Hemingway Public School system. He met the love of his life, Willa, while she was working at Johnson Memorial Hospital in Hemingway, SC. The two married in 1954 and relocated to New Haven, CT in 1956 to raise their family. Walter worked for Champion Automotive, Seamless Rubber Co., Armstrong Rubber Co. and retired from Yale University in 2011 after over 20 years of service. Upon relocating to New Haven, CT he joined St. Paul U.A.M.E Church where he was a dedicated member until he became ill. Walter was also a member of St. Paul Male Chorus for many years. He was a faithful servant to the Lord and continued to keep God first in everything he did. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Walter always put his family first. He loved to sing, listen to his favorite songs, watching Jimmy Swaggart and telling childhood stories to all who would listen. He was full of wisdom, a hard worker, supportive and loving. He had an easygoing personality and was loved by all whom he encountered. Walter was the life of the party and an avid James Brown fan; he could often be found “walking the dog” on the dance floor or telling jokes. He will always be remembered for his jovial spirit. Walter leaves behind to cherish his memory, four daughters Linda Flegler and Patricia (Frankie) Flegler- Galloway, of West Haven, CT, Sharon “Denise” Flegler and Tina Flegler of New Haven, CT; one son Walter (Cheri) Flegler of West Haven, CT. Four grandchildren Cheri (Frank) Ramos of Clayton, NC, Chantel Flegler of Trevose, PA, Monique (Latrell) Carraway of Hamden, CT and Corey Galloway of West Haven, CT. Five great-grandchildren Layla, Carmelo, Latrell Jr. “LJ”, Levi, and Carter. Two sisters Sadie Mack of Charleston, SC, Laura LeSane of New Haven, CT and one brother Frank (Joyce) Flegler of West Haven, CT. Two brothers-in-law John S. (Annie) Cooper of Hemingway, SC and Eddie G. (Magdeline) Cooper of Nesmith, SC; one sister-in-law Sadie Cooper of Bronx, NY and a host of other family and friends. In addition to his parents and wife he was predeceased by brothers John W. Flagler, LeRoy Flagler, George R. Flegler and sisters Minnie Greene and Willa Bea Mention.

Walter Flegler Jr.

August 8, 1931 - March 27, 2020