Holly E. Walker

Holly Walker, Cranford, died peacefully on Friday, December 1, 2023 at age 70 at the Center for Hope in Scotch Plains. She grew up in Pennsylvania and was a proud graduate of Penn State, where she received a degree in English because she loved to read and write. She loved to travel as well. The beach was her happy place, and she visited many beaches around the world. She loved to ride on boats and often went on dolphin or whale watching tours. She collected driftwood and shells at the beach, and could be found many summers at Rehoboth Beach eating Thrasher french fries. Holly had a long list of places she had visited, including but not limited to: Scotland, England, China, Cambodia, Canada, states across the U.S., and more. She enjoyed music and went to many concerts throughout her life. Holly also had a deep faith and was an active member of her local church community. She organized numerous community service projects through the church such as blanket nights, sandwiches for the homeless, and food donation drives. She was known for her fantastic Italian wedding soup and for hosting parties for friends that became family over the years. Above all else, Holly treasured spending time with loved ones. 

 

She was the daughter of William E. and Grace Bair Walker. Her husband, Thomas Hopta, and her stepdaughter, Renata Engel, are waiting for her across the rainbow bridge, as are many family friends like Sandra Tobias. She is survived by her two daughters, Elizabeth Hopta and Katherine Walker, as well as her new son-in-law, John Ouligian. She is also survived by her sister, Laurie W. VanTine, and her brother, Scott E. Walker. Additionally, she is survived by many family members, including, but not limited to: Kaylee Walker, Ryan Walker, Lisa Walker, Stephanie VanTine, Jaimie VanTine, Sandy Guilfoyle and family, Steve Engel and family, and numerous family and chosen family. 

 

Holly considered life, family, and friends a blessing. She was loved and will be deeply missed.