Jeffrey Scott Walton 1960 - 2021
SAUQUOIT - Jeffrey Scott Walton died on January 5, 2021, after losing his long term battle with addiction.
Jeff was born on April 29, 1960, to Bill and Alma Walton of Sauquoit. As a child, Jeff always struggled with going to school and was often found hiding from the bus, which later became a story his mother often told. Although he never completed high school, his strong work ethic and natural ability to diagnose and repair anything on wheels, gave him success and soon earned a great reputation for himself. With his father Bill by his side, together they built a reputable business specializing in repairing large farm equipment and running combines together throughout the fall seasons. With the success of Walton's Farm & Auto Repair, Jeff was able to pick up a hobby in the sport of dirt track racing in the spring of 1988. It was here where his closest friends and family hold some of the best memories of Jeff. Throughout the mid 90's, Jeff was by far one of the most popular drivers at both Utica Rome and Fulton Speedways. With his aggressive, yet patient driving style on the track and his unique ability to make a stranger feel as you've known him your entire life, he quickly became well known and gained many friendships at the races. During the late 90's through early 2000, Jeff made the decision to put racing on hold and his spent free time at home with his two youngest girls, Kelsey and Nikki. Also around this time, his son, Mike, graduated from high school and joined the team working at Walton's Farm & Auto. With the three generations working together, their love for racing was rekindled and Jeff's son, Mike and nephew, Mason, began their go kart racing years, obtaining many victories that will always be cherished and relived through stories. Jeff's oldest daughter, Amy, raced briefly later on, along with her son, Rylin. Ultimately Jeff decided he enjoyed the car owner position and continued with this roll for years, taking much pride in everything he owned. Spending weekends at the race track became the lifestyle for his entire family. Jeff's life changed rapidly in 2007, as he made one small decision that made a huge impact on himself and his loved ones. One which dominated the rest of his adult life with addiction. He lost his marriage, relationships with his children, connection to family, his friends, his business, his health, his smile, his love for racing, his reputation and every scrap of enjoyment in life. Missing out on important family events, intervention, rehabilitation, even jail time and all the love in the world could not stop his addiction. Days turned into years, until it all ended by taking his life and has forever changed the lives of his loved ones, who hope he is finally at peace without struggle. Jeff's family asks that you please remember him without judgment. Those who struggle with addiction are human and fighting a terrible disease. Addiction does not discriminate. Jeff's family hope's that his story can help one person not make the same mistake with this ongoing battle and save a family from losing a loved one. The family also wants to thank the close friends and family who stood by their side in support over the many years of Jeff's addiction. Today Jeff's car, number 2, is carried on by his grandson, Colt. Jeff attended his race this past fall, with a smile from ear to ear and this moment will be cherished by his family forever. Jeff is loved and survived by his four children, Amy Chavis, Mike Walton, Kelsey Roberts and Nikki Walton; sisters, Audrey Arnold, Shelley Walton and Stacy Voce; grandchildren, Rylin Turley, Carter, Connor, Adalynn and Caden Roberts and Wyatt and Colt Kimball; son-in-laws, Andrew Roberts and Matt Chavis; daughter-in-law, Annmarie Walton; along with many nieces and nephews he loved.
A private memorial will be held in the spring for Jeff's family and closest friends.
To view Jeff's online memorial, please go to www.smith-funeralhome.com.