Good-Bye Cowgirl

Dessie Estella Walthall ~

Born in San Francisco and raised in Florin, CA. Daughter of Theodore Woodruff and Amy Casey. Survived by Sister Isabelle Delngeniis and preceded in death by Brother Theodore Woodruff. She graduated from Sacramento High School in 1934. As a young lady Dessie was a successful competitive diver and tap danced professionally throughout Northern California, frequently performing at Bob Wills Hideaway in North Sacramento. Throughout World War Two she supervised the personnel department at McClellan Air Force Base. In 1949 she married Guerdon "Mugs" Walthall and settled in East Sacramento where she resided fifty-six years. Dessie was active with the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Central Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday school. She, along with her husband Mugs and her children, successfully owned and operated two Baskin Robbins Ice Cream stores and the Bon Air Delicatessen, still located at 26th and J Streets; later selling the Delicatessen.

In her later years, she was active with Gleaners Incorporated, the Never Grow Old Ministry at Central Methodist Church, and was President of the Native Daughters of the Golden West, Marguerite Parlor. She traveled extensively throughout the world and loved gardening. Surviving her are her five children: William (Barbara) Hellenge of Pleasanton, Gordon Walthall of Sacramento, Stuart Walthall of Sacramento, Beverly (Jon) Brown of Sacramento, and Holly Walthall of Gardnerville, NV. She is also survived by her four grandchildren: Suzette, Lee, Aaron, and Gabriel, plus great grandchildren Sean and Justine. Dessie will always be remembered for her big heart, compassionate acts, and open home. She is dearly missed by her loving family, her many friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. She died peacefully at her home on June 9th.


Vocals & Rhythm Guitar -- Stuart Walthall
Lead Guitar -- Gordon Walthall
Whistle -- Milton Briggs

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Sacramento
• Country Music
• Acoustic Guitar
• Mother
• songwriter
• original song
• song
• singer