Eugene (Gene) H. Walton

1931-2026

Eugene (Gene) H. Walton, 94, of New Waterford, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. Gene was born in East Palestine in 1931 to Olive and Harvey Walton. In 1948, he left school early to join the United States Marines and served proudly in both the Korean conflict and as a trumpet player in the US Marine Band marching in the Rose Bowl parade in 1951. He was discharged in 1952 as a Staff Sergeant.

He returned to his hometown and married Sally Ann Taylor in June 1954. They were married for 66 years until her passing in August of 2020. During those 66 years Gene worked at Kenmar in East Palestine and eventually joined the sheet metal workers unions in Youngstown #33 and Pittsburgh #12. Through the unions, he traveled around the region working on various jobs to include the Beaver Valley Nuclear Power Plant. He also travelled to New York City as part of the construction crew on the World Trade Centers. His last job before retirement was at the state prison in Erie, Pa. He was also a 67-year member of the Masonic Lodge #417 in East Palestine, Ohio.

When he retired, he started a new hobby which he quickly became known for — antiques. He could often be found at the Rogers sale on Friday mornings and later at the various antique stores in Columbiana. He treasured every piece that he found and was happy when he found a “deal.” The antique stores became mainstay as he visited almost daily and developed strong friendships with the keepers (Steve, Irene, Lisa) of the stores.

Gene is survived by his three sons, Scott (Deb), Dane (Candy) and Brook (Jennifer); his grandchildren, Chris (Korisa), Nikki, Andy (Alyssa), Jena (Nick), Austin and Dylan and his great-grandchildren, Karysn, Cole, Savannah, Jackson, Mason, Madison and Emma. He is also survived by a half-brother, Tom (Deb) Walker, and several cousins.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank the staff at Paul’s in Columbiana for always taking care of Gene when he went in for dinner. Also Salvaged by Grace and the Olde Cluttere’d Corner for allowing him to visit, chat and check out the goods. The family would also like to thank the staff at Windsor House Parkside in Columbiana for their warm and thoughtful care the last few months.

Services will be held Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at the Linsley-Royal Funeral Home in East Palestine. Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. with services immediately following led by Rev. Meta Cramer and Dr. Rev. Steve Cramer. Private burial will take place in the New Waterford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Ohio Masonic Home, 2655 W. National Road, Springfield, OH 45504.

Dad never found an antique he didn’t like, even the bear.

Linsley-Royal Funeral Home in East Palestine is in charge of arrangements.

www.linsley-royal.com

2/4/26