John Eliot Walsh passed away on September 17, 2024, at the age of 70 at his residence in King George, Virginia, following a courageous battle with cancer. Originally a long-time resident of Leonardtown, Maryland, John was born on November 15, 1953, in Glendale, Los Angeles County, California, to George Whitten Walsh and Elsie Walsh (née Jewett). Growing up with eight siblings, John was part of a large, loving family. He later attended the University of Maryland, where he pursued his passion for plants and graduated with a degree in Botany.

John married the love of his life, Debra (Debbie) Lynn Mullsteff, in Silver Spring, Maryland. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising six children: Kelly Osborn of Indian Head, Md.; Bridget Okorie of Apex, NC; Megan Halverson of Poquoson, VA; Michael of Cameron, NC; Patrick of Cary, NC; and Kevin of King George, VA. John is survived by his six children, 18 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild expected soon. He is also remembered by his seven remaining siblings and numerous nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his beloved wife, Debbie, who passed away from cancer on November 22, 2019.

John's career led him to the City of Alexandria, Virginia in 1985, where his expertise in horticulture blossomed. He later advanced to the position of supervisor for gardens and grounds at the U.S. Botanical Gardens in Washington, D.C where he retired in August of 2019. His passion for plants and flowers was matched by his encyclopedic knowledge of botany. Known for his gentle and kind soul, John was a cherished presence at family gatherings, often found seated with his grandchildren in his lap and a baby in his arms. Affectionately dubbed the "baby whisperer," he had a twinkle in his eyes and a warmth that shone through, even behind his famous beard.

Beyond his botanical expertise, John was deeply proud of his Irish heritage and enjoyed sharing family history and stories of their ancestors from Ireland with his children. His love for family, storytelling, and nature leaves a lasting legacy that will be treasured by all who knew him.

John is dearly loved and missed, yet we find comfort knowing he walks among the beautiful fields and flowers of heaven with his beloved Debbie by his side.