Evelyn Waller

Evelyn Waller, 81, beloved wife of the late Dr. Riley Waller (d. 2013), devoted mother of Anya and Robert (Christine), cherished grandmother of Aidan, Riley, Margaret, Owen, Philip, and Cassian, and dear friend to the late Riley Waller Jr. (d. 2024; Marsha “Bunny”), passed away on December 9, 2025, at Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, New Jersey, surrounded by the love of her children.

Nurse Waller. Mrs. Waller. Mommy Waller. Mom. Grandma. Eve-line. Ev. These are the names by which we knew her and the names through which we loved her. They now carry her memory as we honor a life filled with grace, joy, and kindness. She was our vase, and we were her flowers.

Evelyn was born on May 21, 1944, in Monkstown, Northern Ireland, the middle child of five. Her childhood was happy and spirited, shaped by laughter, joy, and deep bonds with her siblings—David and the inseparable Stewart Sisters. It was often said, “Kick one and they all limp.” From those early years grew the warmth, humor, and generosity that defined her life.

Called to care for others, Evelyn trained as a nurse and later immigrated to the United States. She worked in the maternity ward in New York City, where she met her beloved husband, Riley. Together, they built a life grounded in love, friendship, and shared purpose. Evelyn later delighted in sharing stories from her nursing years, always with a smile and a laugh close at hand.

While her children attended The Elisabeth Morrow School, Evelyn served the community as both school nurse and administrative assistant, roles she valued deeply. She took great joy in the students and in being an integral part of the school’s daily life.

Above all, Evelyn delighted in her role as grandmother to her six adored grandchildren. Their days together were filled with gentle melodies and cherished hymns, tales told with sparkle and heart, and a steady current of affection, humor, and bright wit. She loved regaling them with spritely stories from her own journey, passing along family lore and moments from her life with laughter and delight. Small hands learned patience beside her as yarn slipped through her fingers and needles clicked softly, puzzle pieces were decoded and carefully placed, and books full of magic were read together, each page opening the door to wonder, shared imagination and creativity. There were always welcoming arms, the coziest embraces, and a kitchen that promised biscuits, a ready kettle, and unhurried moments at the table. In her later years, they were her greatest joy, and in her final days, she devoted herself to sharing time, presence, and love with each of them.

Evelyn is survived by her children and grandchildren; her siblings, David Stewart (May) and Margaret Lethbridge (Rodney); and many nieces and nephews in Northern Ireland.

Private services will be held in Spring 2026.

Arrangements are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com