Richard Calvin Walton, 65, of East Prairie, Missouri, went to be with Jesus on March 29, 2026. He was born November 3, 1960, in Wyatt, Missouri, to Felix Eledge "Dick" and Florence "Laverne" Larkins Walton.

Richard developed a love for trucking at an early age, cutting his teeth on the steering wheel of his father's C60 Chevrolet. His passion for the open road led him to drive 18- wheelers for numerous companies before founding Richard C. Walton Trucking Company, which served the community for over a decade. Alongside trucking, Richard had a love for farming. At just 13, he drove tractors for Donnie Dick and spent many summers working at the Sweetcorn Shed as part of the Choate Farm's extended family.

The youngest and only son among four children, Richard, was adored and spoiled by his three older sisters. He had a personality that drew people in immediately, making them feel like they had known him forever. His warmth, charm, and quick wit left a lasting impression, and his clever one-liners were loved by all who knew him. Friends and family will remember his laughter, his stories, and the way he could make everyone feel at ease with a simple joke or smile.

He is survived by his son, Richard Calvin Walton II (Jessica); grandchildren Beckett and Sutter Walton of East Prairie; his sister, Jeanne Anne Sullivan of Sikeston; brother-in- law John Lovelace of San Antonio, Texas; nephews Chris Lovelace and Vincent Sullivan; nieces Julie Lovelace Carlson, Elizabeth Sullivan Reem, and Rebecca Sullivan Chapman; as well as six great-nieces and two great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Tammy; and his sisters Peggy Joyce Walton and Dickie Walton Lovelace.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Delta South Nursing Home and Aspire Nursing Home for their compassionate care and support during Richard's time with them.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 1st, beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at 1:00 p.m. at Shelby Funeral Home in East Prairie, MO. Pastor Stanley Triplett will officiate the service.

Interment will follow at Dogwood Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Mark Robison, Frankie Day, Patrick Day, Cecil Lee Hammontree, John Bozeman, and Clint Hutcheson.

Honorary pallbearers are Coy Redfering and Ronnie Pullen.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.