This week brought sad news to Chelsea’s long-time residents with the death of Lydia Walata, who had battled a prolonged illness. For many decades, Mrs. Walata was a dynamic and engaged participant in Chelsea’s civic and political life. As a highly esteemed member of the School Committee, she joined Andrew P. Quigley, Morris Seigal, Liz McBride, Anthony Tiro and Rosemarie Carlisle in bringing Boston University to oversee the Chelsea schools—a bold move that revitalized our struggling school system and continues to benefit our students.
Throughout her tenure on the committee, Mrs. Walata demonstrated strong convictions and independent judgment while adhering to a principle that disagreement need not breed hostility. Her fellow School Committee members and the voters who repeatedly elected her held her in the highest regard, recognizing that her words came from genuine conviction and that she always prioritized what was best for Chelsea’s children.
Chelsea held a special place in Mrs. Walata’s heart. She and her husband, Walter, made their home on Marlboro Street for 56 years, where they raised two children: Kathy, who teaches in the Chelsea schools, and Mark, a college graduate employed in banking. She was also a devoted grandmother to Kristopher Surette.
We join thousands of our fellow residents in extending our deepest sympathy to her family. May she rest in peace.