Wally Louise Sullivan (Hacker), 97, of Riverwoods, Exeter, NH, passed peacefully on February 14, 2025, surrounded by her three daughters. Born in Hamburg, Germany, on December 9, 1927, she was the beloved daughter of the late Gertrude & William Hacker. Wally attended Kendall Hall School for Girls in Peterborough, NH, graduated from Cushing Academy in Ashburnham, MA, and continued her education at Wellesley College in Wellesley, MA.

Throughout her life, Wally called many places home, residing in Sterling Hill, Exeter, Seabrook Beach, NH, N. Andover, MA, and Pawleys Island, SC.

As a child, Wally's early life was shaped by frequent travels between Germany and America, with summers spent in the United States and school years in Germany. By the age of 10, she had crossed the Atlantic Ocean by steamship 27 times. At the height of WWII, when Poland invaded Germany, her family decided to permanently move to America, embarking on a treacherous voyage in late October 1939.

Wally was an extraordinarily competitive spirit. In her youth, she was a passionate gymnast, ballet dancer, and equestrian rider. She was also an active Girl Scout and participated in numerous school sports, including softball, basketball, field hockey, tap dancing, and tennis. During her freshman year at Wellesley College, she met the love of her life, Daniel J. Sullivan. They married in 1947, beginning a life filled with love and adventure.

In her later years, Wally was a dedicated mother to her three daughters and a significant contributor to many organizations in New England, South Carolina, and abroad. She was an active board member and supporter of various charities, including the  Lawrence General Hospital Guild and St. Michaels Guild. Wally also served as PTA President at her church. Together with Daniel, she hosted numerous cocktail parties, one of which was for then-Senator John F. Kennedy. They later attended his Inaugural Ball after his election to the presidency. A passionate traveler, Wally spent many joyous years in Florida and Seabrook Beach with her family. In retirement, Wally and Daniel embraced a love of exploration, purchasing a motorhome and traveling to every state in the U.S., as well as Mexico. Their European adventures were equally memorable.

Wally was predeceased by her loving husband of 57 years, Daniel J. Sullivan (2004). She is survived by her three daughters: Deborah Lazazzera, Cheryl Cataldo, and Sandra Payne (and her husband, Brian), as well as her five grandchildren: Amy Lazazzera, Jennifer Payne-Vantassell (and her husband, James Vantassell), Daniel Lazazzera, Sean Payne (and his wife, Melissa), and Patrick Payne (and his wife, Jaclyn). Wally also leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Garret Markee, Kyla Payne, Landon Vantassell, Kora Payne, Bryson Payne, and Blake Payne.

A wake will be held on Tuesday, February 18, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Brewitt Funeral Home in Exeter, NH. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, February 19, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael Church in Exeter, NH. A private burial to follow at Bellevue Cemetery in Lawrence, MA.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Shiners Children's Hospital.