Alton Hambden Gwaltney, Sr.

Published 4:45 pm Tuesday, July 18, 2023

Alton “Double Truck” Hambden Gwaltney, Sr., 95, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on July 16, 2023.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Betty Jean Meade Gwaltney; two sons, David Gwaltney (Jennifer) and Brian Smith (Stephanie); two daughters, Lea Harrington and Wanda Wood (Robert); daughter-in-law (Dianne Gwaltney); 15 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ruby and Eva Jordan Gwaltney; brother, Ashton Gwaltney and sisters, Cleo Hindman and Edna Nash; first wife, Marie Holland and second wife, Narcissa “Bootie” Gwaltney, son, Alton Gwaltney, Jr., and granddaughter, Kristina White.

Alton joined The Smithfield Ham and Products Co. Inc. in September of 1945. He became known for his Uncle Alton’s barbecue sauce sold in specialty shops. He was Executive Vice President when he retired after 54 years.

Alton was a lover of all sports.  He was known by many as “Double Truck” from his days of pitching for the pony league. He had a passion for the outdoors. He loved his days at the Outer Banks and his time spent surf fishing. He also loved his flower garden and the birds that would enter in. He was a lifelong member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Smithfield, VA. He was a wonderful father, husband, and friend. Alton will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends at Little’s Funeral Home on Thursday, July 20th at 1:00 pm. A celebration of life will follow at 2:00 pm then the interment immediately after at Central Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 201 Cedar Street, Smithfield, VA  23430. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.