01/08/2026
Dr. Marietta Ruth Cesternino Walters
Dr. Marietta Ruth Cesternino Walters, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, missionary, and faithful servant of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, at the age of 77, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on July 15, 1948, Marietta lived a life marked by deep faith, compassion, and obedience to the call of God. On New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day of 1970, Marietta gave her life to Christ, a moment she joyfully celebrated every year as her spiritual birthday. It was fitting, and profoundly meaningful, that she entered eternity on that same day, fully healed and welcomed home by the Savior she loved and served.
From an early age, Marietta demonstrated remarkable musical gifts, using her talents in worship, ministry, and family gatherings to glorify God and encourage others. Music was one of the many ways she expressed her love for Christ and her deep care for the people around her.
Marietta carried a strong missionary calling, devoting much of her life to Africa-based missionary work. With humility, courage, and unwavering conviction, she shared the gospel and her God-given wisdom with people across cultures and continents. Her faith was not theoretical but lived, active, and poured out in service to others.
She earned her doctorate and served faithfully as a counselor and minister, walking alongside individuals and families through seasons of pain, restoration, and spiritual growth. Known for her discernment, gentleness, and unwavering commitment to truth, she offered wise counsel grounded in Scripture and compassion rooted in Christ.
Marietta was married to the love of her life, Richard Walters, for 52 years. They were married in 1973 and built a home anchored in faith, prayer, laughter, and unconditional love. Together they modeled steadfast commitment and devotion to both God and family.
She was a deeply loving mother to her two children, Kimery and Gavin, and a proud and devoted grandmother to her thirteen grandchildren. In her later years, her grandchildren became her greatest earthly joy and most treasured ministry. She poured into their lives intentionally, teaching them about Jesus not only through words, but through presence, prayer, tenderness, and steadfast love. Each one knew they were deeply loved and faithfully prayed for.
Marietta was preceded in death by her parents, George Nicholas Cesternino and Shirley Darlin Davis Cesternino Jacobsen. She is survived by her husband Richard; her children Kimery and Gavin; her brother Anthony Cesternino; her sister India Podsen; her thirteen grandchildren; and many extended family members, friends, and spiritual sons and daughters around the world whose lives were forever changed by her faithfulness.
Marietta’s life was a testimony to the transforming power of Christ and a reflection of God’s enduring love. Her legacy lives on through her family, her ministry, and the countless souls she touched. While she will be deeply missed, we rejoice in the sure hope that she is now in the presence of her Lord, hearing the words she long lived for: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Private services are scheduled. Arrangements have been entrusted to Meyers Funeral Chapel in Blue Springs. Tyler Stingley is our funeral director and personal concierge serving the family. Memories of Marietta and words of comfort for her family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com
Local assistance by Conner-Bowman Funeral Home, 62 VA Market Place Drive, Rocky Mount, VA 24151.
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