Mary Frances Dalton

Mary Frances Dalton, 100, passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 16, 2026, at Waddell Nursing Home in Galax, VA.

She was born on September 29, 1926, in Gladesboro, VA, one of thirteen children born to Raleigh and Rhoda Martin.

On September 29, 1947 she and Robert Alvin Dalton were married---a marriage that lasted 62 years until his death in 2009. She is also preceded in death by 11 of her 12 siblings: Elmira Quesinberry, Violet Edwards, James Martin, Hattie Thompson, Margaret Alderman, Ina Martin, Bedford Martin, Leon Martin, Edward Martin, LD Martin, and Rhoda Ann Cruise.

One brother survives her, Fred Martin of Hillsville, VA.

Mrs. Dalton is also survived by her four children: Linda Marshall (Gary), Cellell Dalton (Susan), Jerry Dalton (Bonnie) and Kenneth Dalton.

In addition, she has six grandchildren: John Marshall (Christal), Joey Marshall (Tonda), Robbie Dalton (Missy), Crystal Cochran (Kelly), Semia Ostrover, and Celeste Morton.

There are eight great grandchildren: Harleigh Marshall, Lily Marshall, Jared Marshall (Megan), Josie Marshall, Blake Dalton, Braden Dalton, Airika Phillips (Greg Baldwin), and Zachary Cochran (McKinley).

Three great great-grandchildren are Callum Baldwin, Isla Baldwin, and Weston Cochran.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 1:30 PM at the Jennings Family Cemetery with Pastor Roland Miller officiating. The family will receive friends on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Vaughan Guynn McGrady chapel is serving the family.