Syna Jan Walsh

Syna Jan Walsh, 93, a longtime resident of Salem, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. 

Born on April 28, 1932, in Winthrop. Syna was the cherished daughter of the late Abraham Chaet and Kate (Sheinshon) Chaet, both of whom emigrated from Russia. She was educated in Winthrop public schools and later earned an associate degree in Art, reflecting her lifelong appreciation for creativity and learning. Syna went on to build a successful career as the owner of her own employment agency, where she was respected for her strong work ethic and dedication. While she took pride in her professional accomplishments, her greatest joy in life was her family. She was the loving mother of nine children, grandmother to twenty, and great-grandmother to seventeen. She rarely missed her grandchildren’s sporting events and enthusiastically cheered from the sidelines. A devoted fan of New England sports teams, she followed the games closely and always had an informed opinion to share. 

Deeply patriotic and well-versed in current events, Syna was known for her spirited debates and sharp mind. She valued education, conversation, and standing firmly for what she believed in. 

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, George James Walsh (1985), with whom she shared 33 years of marriage and nine children. She was also predeceased by her children Janys Walsh (2022), Shelley Walsh (2024), Michael Walsh (2020), and Sean Walsh (2015), as well as her sisters Phyllis Lechtur, Lois Drieman, and Barbara Pinsley. 

She is lovingly remembered by her children: James Walsh of Salem, Karen Walsh of Lynn, Kevin Walsh and his fiancé Amanda of Gloucester, Valerie Tinkham and her husband Bruce of Danvers, and Kimberly Comeau and her husband Marc of Rowley. 

She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jamie Walsh of Lawrence, Paula Walsh of Lowell, Nick Walsh and his wife Jeanele of California, Michelle Creasi and her husband Ryan of Middleton, Jasen Walsh of Salem, Jessie Conti and her husband Stu of Lynn, Jamie McDaid and her fiancé Ruben of Lynn, Samantha Walsh of Wakefield, David Walsh of Peabody, William Walsh of Peabody, Christopher Meneades and his husband Berwald of Dorchester, Katelyn Meneades of Beverly, Larissa Tinkham of South Carolina, Chad Tinkham of New Hampshire, Morgan Walsh of Salem, Kevin Walsh Jr of Gloucester, Kevin Spause of Rowley, Haley Kenney and her husband Aaron of New Hampshire, Kristy Spause and her fiancé Samuel of Marblehead, and Kelly Kozlowski of Rowley and especially proud of her seventeen great-grandchildren.

Syna’s legacy is one of strength, devotion to family, spirited conversation, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

Syna’s memorial services will be held at Murphy’s Funeral Home, 85 Federal St Salem, MA 01970. Visiting hours and funeral service will be held Monday, March 2, 2026, from 4-7.

Flowers are welcome, or donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/