Alexander Edgar Payton Jr.

Alexander Edgar (Al) Payton, Jr also known in earlier years as Alan Morrison Peyton, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025 with the support of his daughter and son-in-law as well as hospice at Rex Hospital's ICU following a short illness at the age of 92. Born on February 20, 1932 the only child to Alex Payton Sr and Karen (McGraw) Hansen in Duluth, Minnesota.
Al grew up in Arlington, VA with his Mom as well as extended family-the McGraws. He often spoke highly of Aunt Harriett and Uncle Carrington (Pop). He attended Washington Lee High School and worked at Manhattan Laundry and the Byrd Theatre.
In 1952 he married Joan Mae Mahoney and was Blessed to be a part of the Hutzler family enjoying family traditions, joyful holidays, weekends on the water at "Pappy's Place" in Aquia Creek and his favorite -Grandma's fried chicken.
A man of great character with a dry sense of humor, detailed oriented and a story teller, especially of his detective years. He was always willing to lend a hand especially with his neighborhood buddies. As a Dad, he was determined to teach his children to be respectful, honest and fair.
Although Alex did not attend college, he strongly supported higher education.
Alex served in the Navy aboard the USS Shadwell. He joined Arlington County Police Department in 1956 working 11 years on Motors later becoming a Detective in both robbery and homicide division. Following retirement in 1982, he worked part time for Fairfax County Sheriff's Department as a bailiff with some of ACPD's "Legends."
He was a member of the American Legion. Alex, with 30 years of sobriety, passionately and proudly worked the 12 Step Program as a member of AA and believed strongly in the Serenity Prayer.
He is preceded in death by his son, Mark Alan Payton and step brothers, George and Don Balmer.
Alex is survived by his wife, Joan Payton, daughter Lisa Bolyard (Gene), daughter-in-law Beverly Payton, grandchildren Mandy Phillips (Zach), Zachary Payton (Marie), Alayna Bolyard, Cole Bolyard and adored great-grandchildren, Bronwyn Grace and Payton Faith Phillips.
In addition; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends from "Creek Life", Loisdale and "Bay Life."
Service to be held Saturday May 3, 2025 at Arlington First Church of the Nazarene with the support of the ACPB and ACPD Motor Squad. Time and Celebration of Life Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Alex's honor to Families For Depression Awareness. Link here -
familyaware.org/donate https://www.familyaware.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/donate/
"There will be a quiz."
~Alex Payton