John Corbett Talton

TALTON, John Corbett, 87, of Radford, Virginia, died from complications of prostate cancer on November 18, 2008 at his son's home in Richmond, Va. He was born in Selma, N.C. April 15, 1921 to Thomas and Swannanoa Talton and was one of a family of six brothers and one sister. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Jo'Nell Lytton Talton, who was at his side; and his children, Dr. John Corbett Talton II and his wife, Dr. Alexandra Sprigg Talton, and Dr. Sarah Talton Campbell her husband, Mac Campbell; his grandchildren, Harrison, Sydney, Callie and John Corbett Talton III, all of Richmond, and Emily (Ryan) Muterspaugh, Catherine (Ben) Williamson and John (Rachel) Campbell; and two great-grandchildren, Kylie Grace and Caleb Ryan Muterspaugh. Mr. Talton was a D-Day veteran and member of the Navy Special Forces. His unit, the Underwater Demolition Team, forerunner of the Navy Seals, was tasked with blowing-up the obstacles on the infamous Easy Red Sector of Omaha Beach, just minutes ahead of the Allied Landing. Mr. Talton was honored by the United States Navy and the French Government for his heroic actions that day. In 1993, he was one of Peter Jennings' featured interviews for the televised 50th Commemoration D-Day Special. He was also featured on the History Channel's "Suicide Mission" series as well as being recognized in numerous publications and the Library of Congress' "In Their Own Words" audio archive. He retired from the Radford Army Ammunition Plant in 1981 where he worked as an engineer for 25 years. He enjoyed woodworking, collecting antique tools and golf with his buddies. He was a 45-year member of the First Baptist Church in Radford. He was a 52-year Mason and member of Virginia May Lodge # 38 A.F. & A.M. and Westhampton Lodge #302 A.F. & A.M. and the Kiwanis Club for over 50 years. He was also a member of VFW Post # 776 and The Meadows Country Club. Most of all he loved his family. He was a devoted husband, dad, granddaddy and great-granddaddy and although we miss him, his wisdom, kindness, courage and good humor are our eternal treasures. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2008 at the First Baptist Church, 3rd and Downey Streets, Radford, Virginia. Family Reception to follow at the Church. Donations can be made to The First Baptist Church in Radford, Virginia, or the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.