Obituary of Ralph Walton

Ralph Douglas Walton, Sr., age 88, died peacefully August 7, 2008 after a brief illness. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 65 years, Margaret P. Sandlin; daughter, Ann Passavanti (Don); son, R. Douglas Walton, Jr. (Linda); grandchildren, Phillip Rosenberger III of Newcastle, Australia, Margaret Norcott (Guy) of Sandy Springs, GA; great-grandchildren, Amelia and Noella Norcott and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son Stephen. Ralph was born on August 5, 1920 in Garland, North Carolina and grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina where he attended school. He served in the U.S. Army in the European Theatre during World War II and moved his family to Jacksonville in 1960 when the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (now CSX) moved here. He retired in 1982 after 42 years of service after which he and Margaret enjoyed many wonderful summers at their vacation home in the North Carolina Mountains. As a devoted member of Arlington United Methodist Church, he greatly enjoyed church activities and being in the Methodist Men's Club. Ralph faced a number of medical issues during the last twenty-five years and he will always be remembered for his sweet spirit and determination to make the best of any situation that came his way. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Arrangements are being handled by Arlington Park Cemetery and Funeral Home, 6920 Lone Star Road. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Arlington United Methodist Church, 1400 University Blvd. North. The family will greet friends on Monday, August 11, 2008 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Arlington Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Florida United Methodist Children's Home, 51 Main St., Enterprise, Florida 32725.