Louise Sandra Talley

Louise Talley ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - University Place on Mar. 17, 2026.Louise TalleyMay 21, 1944 – February 24, 2026Louise Talley, 81, of Gig Harbor, passed away on February 24, 2026. She was born in the small farming town of Larimore, North Dakota, to Evelyn and Laurence Folkers, the third of four children. After graduating from Larimore High School, her adventurous spirit led her west by train to Seattle, where she began her professional life working at a downtown bank.Louise married Charles Kling, and together they had two children, Stuart and Teresa. Their marriage lasted 17 years. After many years as a single parent, she later married Ron Talley, and the two eventually settled in Gig Harbor, a community they quickly grew to love. Their marriage lasted 20 years. Louise remained deeply connected to the area.Photography was one of Louise's greatest passions. She especially loved capturing architecture, nature, and, most of all, people. She believed every expression told a story and delighted in asking strangers and new friends if she could photograph them. Few ever said no.Louise was also an avid gardener who found joy and therapy in tending to her plants. She loved planning garden layouts, planting flowers, and simply getting her hands in the soil. She earned a Master Gardener certificate through Washington State University and proudly shared her knowledge with others. Friends often received bouquets and arrangements from her garden-small gifts of beauty and thoughtfulness.Travel was another lifelong passion. Louise explored the world, always eager to learn about the people and cultures she encountered. She made several trips to China, where she taught English and helped establish a library for schoolchildren. She also traveled throughout Europe, Africa, and South America. In her later years, she took pride in planning and embarking on trips as a solo traveler. Recent favorites included Cuba, Morocco, Kenya, and the lavender fields of Provence-a perfect blend of her love for flowers and adventure.Louise was preceded in death by her son, Stuart. She is survived by her daughter, Teresa Whaley (Rob Whaley); her stepchildren, Christine Talley, Angela Talley, and Steve Talley; her sisters, Carol Shakerley and Janet Carr; and her brother, Alton Folkers. Her seven grandchildren were her greatest joy-she loved sharing their photos and accomplishments and proudly wore their college team gear, always a great conversation starter.Louise enjoyed volunteering at the Gig Harbor Visitor Center and often said she never wanted to leave the Key Peninsula because of its beauty and the many friendships she formed there. She lived simply, gave generously, and supported numerous charitable organizations. Louise will be deeply missed; her departure came far too soon for those who loved her.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Food Backpacks 4 Kids, an organization providing healthy food to children, families, and seniors on the Key Peninsula. [Food Backpacks 4 Kids | Key Peninsula, WA]Memorial Service:Saturday, March 21st at 1:00 PMAgnes Dei Lutheran Church 10511 Peacock Hill Ave NWGig Harbor, WA 98322To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.