John Rolland Walters

John Rolland Walters, 40, of Hendersonville, NC became an angel in Heaven on November 8, 2023, following a brief illness.  He fought a lifelong battle with 4H  Leukodystrophy and mitochondrial disease. 

            John is survived by his parents, David and Yolan Walters (nee Johannsen) of Hendersonville, NC, an uncle, Rolland Johannsen (Moonika) of Omaha, NE, a cousin, Jesse Walters of Boone, NC and many second and third cousins.

            John was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents Rolland and Yolan Johannsen of Hendersonville, NC, formerly of Shaker Heights, Ohio; and John and Mary Anne Walters of Hendersonville, NC formerly of Terrace Park and Lima, Ohio; and his uncle Richard Walters (Donna Carter) of Boone, NC.

            In 1994 John became the second Eblen Foundation Ambassador.  He greatly enjoyed his involvement with the Foundation's many charitable events and their connection with the Carolina Panthers and the WWF.

             Despite being non-verbal and non-ambulatory, he excelled academically and had a lifelong love of learning.  His writing skills enabled him to win several contests including a play that won second place in the Flat Rock Playhouse playwriting contest and a first-place essay for a WLOS essay contest, winning a computer and internet access for West Henderson High School.  His math skills were also exceptional. A college professor taught him trigonometry in the seventh grade.  He continued with advanced math.  He graduated from West Henderson in 2001 with several accolades:  National Honor Society, Honor Block and North Carolina Scholar.  After graduation he attended courses at Furman University from 2001-2006.  His achievements inspired many throughout his life.  In addition to his educational activities, John loved boating, fishing, riding his scooter and yearly trips to Sanibel, FL.

            His parents would like to thank the Henderson County School System for their tireless and unwavering support providing the resources needed to challenge John academically; the EMTs; and the Pardee ER and ICU Doctors, Nurses, Technologists and Clergy for their compassion, diligence and skill in working with a very complex case to resolve the many issues affecting John in his final days.

                   In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Yaya Foundation, PO Box 8670, Minneapolis, MN 55408 or  www.yayafoundation4hl.org.

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