Wallace Howard Staton

Wallace “Wally” Howard Staton, 80, of Charlotte, NC, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on May 17, 2012.

Wally was born March 9, 1932 in Lynchburg, VA and grew up in Chatham, VA. He was the son of the late Victor and Anne Staton. Wally was a 1949 graduate of Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, and attended the University of Richmond and Phillips Business School. He moved to New York City to work and live, and it was there that he met the love of his life, Sue. They married in 1960 and moved to Charlotte. Wally retired as southeastern sales manager after 43 years with Dan River Mills.

Wally was a longtime member of Myers Park Presbyterian Church; there he and Sue enjoyed sitting with their “own Sunday School Class” during the early service. He was a wonderful and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Wally so enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. They were the light of his life. Whether attending a Special Olympics event, where he took such pride in watching his grandson receive a medal, or listening to his granddaughters sing or play the piano, or taking in a dance recital, he absolutely thrilled in everything they did.

Wally loved working in his beautiful yard, and always had a wonderful summer garden with the best tomatoes in Mecklenburg County. He loved the city of Charlotte, and delighted in its growth. Wally loved the Low Country, and always looked forward to the family’s annual summer beach trip. He was a talented fisherman, and was completely at home standing in the surf waiting for a bite.

Following his retirement, he truly became a “Renaissance Man”. Wally and his wife enjoyed traveling, art, music, and theater. He began watercolor painting, and his work graces the walls of many homes. Friends and family appreciated his quick wit and storytelling. He was a true Southern gentleman, and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Wally was preceded in death by his brother, Victor Bruce Staton. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 52 years, Sue; daughter, Sally Taylor and her husband Brock; his three grandchildren, Murphy, Jake and Riley; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 21, 2012 at Myers Park Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends following the service. Interment will be private.

Memorial donations may be made to Special Olympics North Carolina, 2200 Gateway Centre Blvd., Suite 201, Morrisville, NC 27560-9122 or to Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region, 1420 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204.