It is with deep sadness, but also with gratitude for a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Alton Ray Wagnon, who went to be with the Lord on September 30, 2026, at the age of 89.

Alton was born in Chatsworth, Georgia, to Gordon and Susie Mae Bishop Wagnon and remained a proud lifelong resident of the Dalton Community he loved so dearly. Dalton was not only his home, but the place where he built a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and service to others.

One of the greatest blessings of Alton’s life began at Stafford’s Supermarket, where he worked as a young produce boy. One day a young woman named Carolyn Green came through the store as a customer, and from that moment on, their story began. It was love at first sight. Alton and Carolyn would go on to share 67 wonderful years of marriage, building a life together centered on faith, devotion, and deep love for their family.

Faith was a guiding force throughout Alton’s life. For more than 50 years, Alton and Carolyn faithfully served as members of Spring Place Baptist Church. During those years Alton gave generously of his time and leadership, serving as Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Training Union Director, Chairman of the Finance Committee, and Chairman of the Pastor Search Committee. Later, they became members of Calvary Baptist Church in Dalton, where they worshiped and served for more than a decade. While at Calvary, Alton served as Senior Adult Director and also continued his leadership on the Finance Committee and Pastor Search Committee.

Following the passing of his beloved Carolyn, Alton became a member of First Baptist Church of Dalton, where his son attends. The church family at First Baptist became a great blessing to him, and he deeply appreciated the fellowship, encouragement, and kindness they showed him in those years.

Alton was known for his strong work ethic and determination. A self-made and self-educated businessman, he began his career at Coronet Carpets in Dalton and, through dedication and perseverance, rose through the ranks to become Executive Vice President, serving the company for more than 30 years. After leaving Coronet, he became partner in Sunrise Carpets in Chatsworth, Georgia, where he served as President for more than a decade.

During the early years of trade opening between the United States and Russia, Alton had the unique opportunity to serve as an Ambassador to Russia for the State of Georgia. In that role, he helped pioneer opportunities for the Dalton carpet industry to enter the Russian market, contributing to the international growth and reputation of the industry that helped shape the community he loved.

Beyond business, Alton had a heart for young people and education. He believed strongly in encouraging the next generation and supporting their opportunities to succeed. Over the years he served his community through involvement in the local school system, including serving as PTA President and as President of the Southeast High School Band Boosters. His support and partnership with the school system reflected his deep commitment of helping young people grow and thrive.

Alton and Carolyn also loved traveling across the United States with family and friends. Those trips created many joyful memories and stories that would be cherished for years to come.

Alton’s life was a rich and meaningful tapestry woven with love, faith, friendships, and service to others. He possessed both a sharp mind and a compassionate heart. Throughout his life he quietly encouraged many people, helping them believe in themselves and reach their potential. His kindness, wisdom, and ability to connect with others lift ad lasting impression on all who knew him.

He truly believed it was more blessed to give than ro receive, and he lived that belief every day through his generosity toward his family, his church and his community.

Alton was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Carolyn Green Wagnon and his son, Garrison Wagnon and brother-in-law, Larry Whitener.

He is survived by his son, Terry L. Wagnon; grandchildren, Alec Wagnon (Sasha) and Sarah Grace Broome (Zach); great-grandchildren, Whitley and Ellie Wagnon, Bennett Broome, Ansley Gentry, and Owen Hiht.

Services to celebrate the Life of Mr. Alton Ray Wagnon will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Dalton, in the Main Sanctuary, with Dr. Jonathan Barlow, Pastor of First Baptist Church of Dalton, and his nephew, The Reverend Darey Kittle of Salem Baptist Church of Dalton, officiating.

He will be laid to rest at Ponders Whitfield Memorial Gardens with Bobby Ballew, Mike Ballew, Jr., Mike Turner, Alec Wagnon, Zach Broome, and Phil Foster honored to serve as pallbearers.

Honorary pallbearers will be his devoted caregivers: Marilyn Dawson, Jeri Bryant, Sandra Johnson, Krisie Cummings, Brandy Rittenhouse, Greta Campbell, Latisha Thomas, Gail Barton, Tabitha Cross, and Josh Palomin. Special thanks to Amethyst Hospice who loved and took care of him in his final days.

The family will receive friends at Ponders Melrose Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Friday and after 10:00 a.m. Saturday morning until the service hour.

The a family will accept flowers, or donations may be made to:

First Baptist Church of Dalton, Friends With Meals Program, 311 Thornton Ave., Dalton, GA, 30720

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, Georgia 30721, (706) 226-4002. “Your Selected Independent Funeral Home”