Obituary of Walter N. McNally
With heavy hearts, the family of Walter N. McNally announce his passing on October 21, 2025.
Born in 1931 to Iscah and Agnes McNally, he was the youngest of four brothers who included Russell, Frank and Robert. Walter was raised in Putnam Connecticut and later moved to Pomfret to raise his family.
Walter was educated in the Putnam school system and later attended Eastern Connecticut State University (then known as Willimantic State Teachers College) to pursue a career as an educator, class of 1953. During his time at ECSU, Walter was a standout athlete in both baseball and basketball. He was inducted into the ECSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002 in recognition of his athletic prowess. Walter’s passion for athletics would continue his entire life.
In 1952 he married his high school sweetheart, Yvonne Bousquet. Their love story spanned more than five decades together and Walter’s love and devotion continued alone following her unfortunate passing in 2005.
Walter was a lifelong educator. His career spanned forty years, in both the Pomfret and Plainfield school systems. He was a teacher, basketball coach, umpire, driver’s education instructor, advisor and eventually an Athletic Director. He was a Providence College season ticket holder, and won the 1979 CSGA Father Son Golf Championship.
He was a member of the Putnam Elks PBOE Lodge 574 serving as Exalted Ruler twice and was also a member of the Pomfret’s Lions Club, dedicating his time and expertise to support his community. He traveled extensively with his wife and family.
Walter lived for his immediate and extended family. Always quick to laugh, but also ready to support and advise. As a parent, he modeled hard work and a strong sense of right and wrong to his children. His value of family was evidenced daily to his children and through his legendary clam bakes, barbecued chicken roasts and dinner parties for his extended and ever growing McNally clan. Walter provided his grandchildren and great grandchildren with countless memories; the famous “Grampa tree”, hide and seek and so many spontaneous songs and games. Walter’s joy of life and overall warmth and kindness will ensure his influence continues in his absence.
Walter was predeceased by his beloved wife Yvonne, and his brothers Russell, Frank and Robert. He is survived by his three children, David (Paula), Gary (Jean) and Christine (Tom). In addition, Walter was a proud and enthusiastic grandparent to Amy (Patrick), Kelly (Justin) and Hope, and a loving great grandparent to Noah and Owen.
Walter’s family would like to invite family and friends to Calling hours Tuesday, October 28, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street Putnam, CT. A Memorial Service will be Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Funeral Home with a reception to follow. Burial will be private. Share a memory at Smithandwalkerfh.com