Harry Oliver Dalton, age 88, the eldest child of the late Martin M. and Estle Rowland Dalton, passed away Friday, Feb. 10, 2017. Oliver was born March 28, 1928 in Pittsylvania County on his mother’s birthday.  

In addition to his parents and four siblings, Oliver is preceded in death by his wife, Marion Dalton, on March 4, 2006. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Deborah Stafford and her husband, Billy; son, Mark Oliver Dalton; grandson, William Oliver Stafford, affectionately called, Sir William; four sisters, Earline Mann, Anne Bryant, Patsy Talbert and Karen Bronaugh; one brother, Kent Dalton; and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.

Oliver worked for the Virginia Department of Soil Conservation for 42 years, followed by 21 years with the Department of Recreation and Conservation.  He was an active member of Smithfield Baptist Church, a deacon and past chair of the board of deacons.  He was past Sunday school superintendant, and served on the building committee to rebuild the church after it burned.  

He was a kind, gentle, genuine man and the ‘salt’ of the earth. He loved nature and the great outdoors, enjoyed fishing, and even in his later years was passionate about taking long walks.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 14, in St. Luke’s Memorial Park, with the Rev. Dr. Donald R. Rhoton officiating. The family will receive friends following the graveside service at Smithfield Baptist Church.

The family expresses special thanks to the staff of Willow Creek unit of Riverside Healthy Living, Smithfield, for their love and support given Oliver and them during his stay.  The family request memorial contributions be made to Smithfield Baptist Church, 100 Wainwright Dr., Smithfield, 23430 or Isle of Wight Relay for Life, c/o Pam Jordan, 18214 Farmview Lane, Windsor, VA  23487.

Service arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, 14214 Carrollton Blvd. Carrollton.  Family and friends are encouraged to share condolences and remembrances at  colonialfuneralhomesmithfield.com.