Rev. George Marcellus Walton

Rev. George Marcellus Walton passed away on Saturday, November 16th, after a day filled with fun and conversation with those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Karen Walton, and parents, Oliver and Mary Walton.

He is survived by his son Marc Walton of Olivia, NC, daughter Kari Walton of Sun Prairie, WI, daughter Holly Walton of Olivia, NC, and granddaughter Kallan Engleson of Sun Prairie, WI; brother-in-law Winston Bailey (Patsy) of Washington, GA; many nieces and nephews, and former son-in-law, Michael Engleson.

Born on September 1, 1945, in Washington, Georgia, he lived a life filled with humor, service to God, and love for his family and friends. A consummate storyteller, he spent many hours telling stories from his childhood, some with embellishments and a wink in his eye. A self-proclaimed mischievous youth, in his words, “It’s a miracle I made it out of childhood.” He met his wife in middle school while sitting behind her in the concert band, and they married on August 27, 1966, followed by the birth of his three children.

He found his calling to the ministry in 1975, and the family moved to Decatur, Georgia, where he attended Columbia Theological Seminary, graduating in 1979. He accepted pastorate for three churches, Bethel Presbyterian, Danube Presbyterian, and Mary Horner Walker Presbyterian in South-central Virginia, and was ordained into the ministry in August 1979. From 1986-2015, he served at Olivia Presbyterian and Buffalo Presbyterian from 2016-2024. Being with people was among his many joys; he never met a stranger. He performed countless weddings and baptisms and comforted many during tough times.

 George loved and lived his work, and music was central to his ministry, offering another voice for his storytelling. He founded the Jesus Train and Olivia Good News Singers gospel groups, sang in the choir, led youth music ministry and Christmas pageants, and wrote numerous songs reflecting his faith.

His greatest gift to his children and grandchild was the love of music. An only child, George built many lifelong relationships with extended brothers and sisters. He enjoyed annual trips to Emerald Isle, NC, playing cards, attending musical events, and going to the gym. As an adult, he found a passion for watercolor painting and enjoyed making special gifts for those he loved.

A service of gratitude and celebration will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. at Olivia Evangelical Presbyterian Church (3363 Olivia Road, Sanford, NC 27332). Visitation will follow immediately in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the building fund at Olivia EPC or Prairie Music & Arts, Inc. (PO Box 68, Sun Prairie, WI 53590). Arrangements are by Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home, Sanford, NC.

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