Berton Tensley Belcher

Berton Tensley Belcher, born on October 8, 1944, to Doris Alderman Belcher and Arthur Belcher, passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom. Berton was a devoted husband to Joan Henderson Belcher, to whom he was happily married for 54 years. Together, they built a life filled with joy and cherished memories.

Berton is survived by his beloved children: Vanessa (Andy) Plair of Valdosta, Valerie Judah of Dothan, Alabama, and Richard Dawson of Tampa, Florida. He was a proud grandfather to Sarah (Ryan) Parrish, Andrew Plair, and Jared Judah, and a great-grandfather to Wyatt Swann and Malei Parrish. Berton’s siblings include Cindy (Charles) Lavender, Carol (Don) Griffin, and Mike Belcher of Valdosta, along with Pam Knight of Pinetta, Florida.

A graduate of Madison County High School in 1962, Berton honorably served his country for four years in the United States Air Force. Following his service, he devoted 36 years to a career with GTE (AG Communications), now Lucent Technologies, traveling across the United States to install telephone communication equipment. After retirement, Berton and Joan returned to the Valdosta area, where he continued to embrace life with enthusiasm.

Berton’s heart was full of love for his family, which he expressed through his humor and zest for life. He enjoyed traveling with the Midsouth Road Runner Club in their motor home, hunting, fishing, playing cards, and dancing to his favorite tunes. Known for his knack for fixing anything, Berton loved to “piddle” and was always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors and friends. Whether riding his golf cart or 4-wheeler through the neighborhood or sharing stories with his gift of gab, he brought joy to those around him.

He passed down practical wisdom to his children and grandchildren, teaching them valuable life skills such as changing oil, shooting firearms safely, cleaning up after themselves, and managing finances. Berton’s infectious smile and joyful spirit brightened every room he entered.

A man of deep faith, Berton believed in the Lord and now rests peacefully with his Savior, Jesus Christ.

A memorial service to honor Berton Tensley Belcher will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 PM prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/ , and the Georgia Sheriffs' Boys Ranch, https://www.georgiasheriffsyouth.org/donate/. Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanefuneralservices.com.

Berton will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him. His legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom will live on in the hearts of many.