Family has always been at the heart of Wallyn’s story. Born and raised on the island of Oʻahu, she is the youngest of four children in a family deeply rooted in Hawaiʻi, where both of her parents were also born and raised.

Her father dedicated more than 30 years to service in the U.S. Army before his passing in 2025, and her mother devoted herself to caring for her children at home. Although her parents divorced when she was just one year old, family remained a central and guiding presence in her life.

Wallyn grew up alongside her older sister and two brothers, sharing bonds that shaped her childhood. Her sister later relocated to the mainland in 2022. The family experienced the profound loss of both of her brothers in 2022, just 2 1/2 months apart

Through her father’s second marriage, Wallyn’s family circle expanded to include a “step” sister and a younger sister, reflecting the enduring and evolving connections that continue to define her family.

Wallyn and her older siblings were raised by their grandmother, who “hānai” (informally adopted) them. As a single grandparent, her grandmother was the strong foundation of their family. “Grams,” as they called her, raised the children with love, discipline, and respect, always encouraging them to do their best. Her grandmother passed away in 1991.

Wallyn attended public schools in ʻAiea from preschool through 9th grade. She then went to Leilehua High School in Wahiawā and graduated in 1986. After high school, she had her first child and worked while caring for her grandmother until her grandmother passed away in 1991.

Wallyn is a proud mother of four grown children (keiki) and a grandmother “Puna” to eight grandchildren “mo’opuna”. Her three daughters and eight grandchildren live on the mainland, and her son lives on Oʻahu.

She continued her education at Hawaii Pacific University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Justice Administration and an Associate’s degree in Business Management. She also earned two Theology degrees from Life Christian University, all while raising her children and managing her household during her husband’s Navy service.

Throughout her life, Wallyn has volunteered in her community. She has worked with animal advocacy groups, served in her church, helped organizations that support the homeless, assisted seniors “kupuna”, and spoken at state and county government hearings on issues affecting the people of Hawaiʻi.

Wallyn is passionate about representing her community and the people of Hawaiʻi. She believes in doing what is right and standing up for others. She has stepped forward to make a positive difference for the people of Hawaiʻi.

“You want to see change – Be the change yourself!” ~ Anonymous