Vertie Pulliam

Vertie Ellen Pulliam (Awald), age 94, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, at Miller’s Manor in Walkerton, Indiana with the compassionate support of Hospice Services and her children. Born on October 13, 1930, Vertie was the youngest of ten children of Ora Jay and Agnes Awald, along with six sisters and three brothers who all preceded her in death. She was also preceded by her beloved husband, Robert Norton Pulliam of Walkerton and Lisa Smotherman, her granddaughter, Mishawaka, Indiana. Robert and Vertie were happily married for 73 years, and together raised four children, Barbara Dunbar, (Bill Dunbar), Jacqueline Tijerina, Susan Wieger, (Jim Wieger) and Mark Pulliam. She was a proud and loving grandmother to seven grandchildren, Sara Figg, Adrianne Allen, James Wieger, Christy Voss, Kelli Little Amy Borkholder, Steve Wieger. Vertie had thirteen great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy and pride. Vertie started her career as a beautician, later dedicating herself to raising her family as a stay-at-home mother. She later worked at the Polygon Fiberglass Company in Walkerton, where she was known for her strong work ethic and warm spirit. Vertie will be remembered for her quiet strength, her devotion to her family and the kindness she extended to everyone she met. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she cherished. Vertie had a deep love for cooking and baking-she was known by many as one of the best around. She also had a passion for basketball, faithfully attending her grandchildren’s games and cheering on her favorite team, the Indiana Fever. Her green thumb was evident in her love for gardening, canning, and creating beautiful flower arrangements. For over 50 years, Vertie and Robert were devoted members of the United Missionary Church in Koontz Lake. She found great joy in singing in the choir and teaching Sunday school, sharing her faith and warmth with others. Above all, Vertie’s greatest passion was her family. She will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering love, and the joy she brought to those around her Funeral services will be at 12:00 EDT Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the Koontz Lake Missionary Church with visitation from 11:00 AM EDT to the time of the funeral, also at the church. Burial will follow at Grovertown Cemetery. In honor of Vertie, if you wish, please donate to: Dunes Hospice www.duneshospicellc.com 888-602-9004

Vertie Pulliam

October 13, 1930 - July 10, 2025