Norma Jean Walters 1947-2025
Norma Jean Walters, also known as “Mean Jean,” of Salem, Va., passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2025.
Jean was born on Saturday, May 10, 1947, to George Mosby Walters, Jr., and Verbena Dickerson Walters in Christiansburg, Va. Jean married her ex-husband, Carl Gene Poff, and moved to Salem. They went on to have their daughter, Melissa Dawn Shonkwiler. After the divorce, Jean began her long banking career at Salem Bank and Trust, retiring in 2014.
Jean was known for her crazy sense of humor and love for dancing. She loved her family deeply and was extremely proud of her grandson, Kai, who called her “Nanna Banana.”
Jean was predeceased by her parents, George Mosby Walters, Jr., and Verbena Dickerson Walters; as well as her siblings, Kelly Walters, Shirley Bartlett, and Brenda Thomas.
Jean is survived by her daughter, Melissa Dawn Shonkwiler, and her husband, Don Shonkwiler; and her grandson, Kai Shonkwiler.
The family would like to thank the Burch family, especially Lucas, who visited often; her best friend, Diane Holdridge; her caregivers, Maddie Brown and Nikki Blue; and long-time extra daughter Kristy Hull for all her love and support.
Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.
