Dr. Sally Y. Walker (nee Yahnke)

Dr. Sally Walker (Ed.D) passed away surrounded by family on September 11, 2023, while in hospice care in Barrington, IL . She bravely battled numerous cancers for the last 15 years. Born on December 2, 1942, Sally was the only child of Elmer and Evelyn Yahnke in Joliet, IL.

Sally was a lifelong educator and began her career as an elementary school teacher, Her passion for understanding advanced learners (gifted and talented students) led her to the Kishwaukee Educational Service Center and eventually the Illinois Association for Gifted Children where she served as Executive Director from 1998-2016. In this leadership role, Sally served on many committees locally and nationally, advocated tirelessly for gifted children, and helped the board to provide many new opportunities for advanced learners in Illinois.

Sally’s leadership role was acknowledged by others. As such, she received several awards to honor her work: The Illinois Association of Education Office Professionals Illinois Administrator of the year (2007), IMSA Trustee Award (2012), NAGC David W. Belin Advocacy Award (2016), and the Sally Waler Distinguished Service Award (2017). In addition , Sally was the author and co-author of numerous books on gifted education.

Sally is survived by her four grandchildren (Harrison and Ellary Bending, Trent and Taylor DeVries and her three daughters, Beth (John) DeVries of Roscoe, IL, Amy (Christopher) Matthews of Phoenix, AZ and Sarah (Brett) Bending of Algonquin IL.

“Donations in Sally’s memory can be made to the Illinois Association for Gifted Children.”