Robert (Alton) Becton

Robert Alton Becton 87, of Valdosta, GA, passed away Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at his home with his loving family. Alton, as he was known by everyone, was born October 10, 1933, to the late James Riley "JR" and Annie Jewell Barwick Becton. Alton attended Lowndes County Grammar School and graduated from Valdosta High School in 1951. Alton and Betty were long time members of Park Avenue United Methodist Church and the Fellowship Sunday School Class. Alton proudly served his country in the United States Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, NC, from 1954 to 1956. After being discharged Alton worked with the United States Postal Service for 34 years, retiring in 1990. He retired as Superintendent of Postal Services.
Alton is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Betty Ruth Brooks Becton; children, Robert Michael (Terri) of Valdosta, GA, Daniel A. (Linda) of Jacksonville, FL, and Terry Becton Borders (Billy) of St. Augustine, FL; four grandchildren, Anslie Becton Hutson (Robert), Moultrie, GA, Evan M. Becton (Kayla) Valdosta, GA, Ashlyn Becton Johnson (Zach), Valdosta, GA, and Lauren Lynn Becton, Jacksonville, FL; two great grandchildren Wade and Levi Hutson, both of Moultrie, GA. Also surviving are three sisters-in-law, Harriett Becton, Patricia Becton, and Betty C. Brooks all of Valdosta, GA, along with a number of nieces and nephews. Alton was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Julian, Bennie, and Lavelle Becton, and a grandson Jonathan Chase Borders.
In Alton and Betty's younger days they enjoyed square dancing and traveling. They would put their three children in the car and head to the Smokey Mountains. He loved making things for his grandchildren and they loved coming to their grandparents’ house. After retirement Alton and Betty traveled longer distances to Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Canada, and out West along with cruises to the Caribbean. Alton enjoyed golfing with his friends and fishing until his health failed.
A special Thank You from the family to the Hospice of South Georgia and Langdale Hospice House for the excellent care, our Dad and Husband received during his final illness. A special Thank You to Betsy his wonderful hospice nurse and to Sharvonnie Dean, Alton's caregiver whose care helped us keep him at home with his family. We will always Love You.
A graveside service will be held at 1pm on Friday, February 26, 2021 at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:30-1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Memorials be made in his name to the Langdale Hospice House, 2263 Pineview Drive, Valdosta, GA 31602, or to the Methodist Home for Children & Youth, 2545 E. Park Ave, Valdosta, GA 31605. Condolences to the family may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home.