Jeffrey Nelson Walton
November 25, 1958 ~ July 8, 2022
Marietta Southern Cremations & Funerals
Jeffrey Nelson Walton, age 63, passed away Friday morning, July 8th, 2022. His life is celebrated by those he is survived by, his children Parker (Grace) Walton, Bailey (Logan) Lauters, Hudson (Meghan) Walton; step-mother Jan Walton; sisters Pamela Rice, Karen Schwab, Sandy Morgan, and Susan Bothamley; brother Dick Walton; as well as his nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by father F. Richard Walton, M.D. and sister Deborah Florek.
Jeff was born on November 25, 1958 in Oakland, CA. He was a proud graduate of Jennings County High School, Hanover College, where he was a 2nd Team All-American Tight End, and the University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business, where he also served as a Graduate Assistant for the Fighting Irish (football). Jeff spent the majority of his career working for enterprise companies, including Leo Burnett, Dow Brands, Coca-Cola, and Miller Brewing Company.
He deeply loved his kids and was immensely proud of them. Jeff’s hobbies throughout his years included coaching them in sports, attending countless baseball, softball, football and basketball games along with tennis matches to cheer them on, going for walks, watching the Irish play on Saturday and the Packers on Sunday, drinking a large fountain diet coke from McDonald’s, spending time with friends, smoking a cigar on the porch, taking drives, and quoting classic movies with his kids.
Jeff is fondly remembered for his big, warm presence, his stories, and his bear-like hugs. His greatest pride in his life was his children. His memory will be cherished and live on in his children, family, and friends.
There will be a private service held on Saturday, August 13th at Southern Cremations & Funerals, 1861 Dallas Hwy, Marietta, GA 30064.
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My deepest sympathy to all. Having worked with Jeff he was one of those special people that made your days brighter and have more meaning. God Bless.
Parker, Bailey, and Hudson, So sorry to hear about your dad. He was always so full of life. I will never forget our time as friends and teammates in Choir, Basketball, Musicals, etc.. at Jennings County High and our time as brothers-in-law. Rest in Peace “Bulldog”!
Jeff Walton was one of those people with whom conversations could always pick right back up where they left off, and the old stories would come to life again, no matter whether you just saw him last week or had not spoken for years. That was not just because Jeff had a remarkable memory of events and experiences, which he did, but because he possessed a genuine interest in and invested in the lives of the people around him. Our friendship sprung into existence when the Walton family relocated to Jennings, grew strong in our daily interactions as a classmates and teammates at JCHS, and lasted for 47 years until Jeff’s sudden departure. Our paths diverged and, due to geography, I very rarely saw my dear friend. We only spoke by phone and, despite life’s busy-ness, our infrequent conversations brimmed with a brotherly spirit which always energized and encouraged me, and I believe Jeff felt the same. I will miss those conversations. Over the years, I have thought of Jeff nearly every day, and probably always will.
Parker, Bailey, and Hudson, your dad was always quick to tell me how blessed and thankful he was to have each of you. He was so proud of you. May you each cherish your memories of your best times with him, and may you each grow stronger individually (and together as family) as you move forward.
I am in utter shock. Jeff was my best friend throughout college and we spoke every day . I got cards and letters from my best friend. I had no idea J had passed. He called me 4-6 times a day. I had sent him a comforter and for his twin bed. I am so sorry. TRACEY ANN
T was coming to ATLANTA. Jeff had purchased her tickets. The children need to reach out to TRACEY.
THEY WERE CHEERLEADING PARTNERS AT HC FOR 4 YEARS. THEY WERE BEST FRIENDS AND STUDY PARTNERS. FYI
Jeff was the first person we met during our orientation at Hanover College. Our orientation class stayed together four years. We had meals at our professor’s home each month and he had us over for special events. Dr. RALPH Seifert. Math Professor. He was wonderful. Tracey Thomas was in our group and they began a long time friendship and our group studied and prayed together. We always went to chapel and had Bible study. Tracey Ann knew what it took to make it at Hanover. She and Jeff were both so much alike and funny. They were so good to everyone on campus. They spoke to everyone and they always were pulling pranks on each other to see who could make the best funny. They were the best of friends. They were the only folks that did not marry each other. But everyone thought they were best friends and they did not want to ruin that friendship. You should talk to her as she has many things about your daddy she can tell you. Debbie M
Caroll Chappell here. I was there too. Jeff and Tracey Ann were truly best friends. I know that they never stopped communicating. Traceys daughter had many hip surgeries and they were prayer partners for many Hanover College Alumni. They were the only people that had true friendship that surpassed 50 years. They were the comedy club of the class. They were so intelligent and they were clever too. They were athletic and they were very nice and happy. I never saw them using alcohol. They were always very funny. They were coneheads. I will never forget how funny they were and Tracey was so funny. She was great to help and a they were cheerleader partners 3 years.