Obituary of Tom Walton

Tommie Arvil Walton, (72) of Gridley, California, passed away on September 3, 2023, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer, surrounded by loved ones.

Tommie, better known as Tom by the community, was born on November 14, 1950, in Marysville, California, to Arvil and Betty Walton. Tom loved animals from a young age and started hobby farming in his parents’ small backyard. He met the love of his life, Joan Stout, at the age of fifteen, and together, they rode motorcycles, swam in ditches, and participated in all sorts of shenanigans around the streets of Gridley. After a lengthy courtship they made their love official on October 16, 1970, when Joan finally finished high school.

Tom enlisted in the National Guard shortly after marrying and reported to Fort Ord near Monterey, California. After serving, he was employed as a hired man with a local farmer. Here, he discovered his passion for growing, hauling, and delivering hay. He spent the next forty-eight years combining his two passions, animals, and hay farming into a life he loved.

They welcomed their one and only son, Jedediah, in 1977. Tom was a dedicated father who lovingly taught his son the value of integrity, hard work, and a generous spirit. Being a father was one of Tom’s greatest accomplishments. In 2004, he became a grandfather to Julia, who would soon be followed by two more granddaughters, Alyssa in 2007 and Scarlett in 2012. After having his son earlier in life, Tom often commented how special he was to be blessed with granddaughters.

Tom, above all else, was a family man. He was often referred to as “the favorite uncle who always had a candy bar in his pocket” or the “favorite brother-in-law who always had a kind smile and a generous heart.” He was an uncomplicated man who strived to be a good person. These are a few of the reasons he will be missed so much.

Tom is survived by his wife, Joan, and his son, Jed, along with Jed’s wife, April, and their three children. He is also survived by his mother, Betty Walton; his brother and sister-in-law, John and Cathie Walton; his sister and brother-in-law, Kim and Ric Letterman; his brother, Randy; and his brother, Tony.

Predeceased by his father, Arvil.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.