Francis Warren Dalton, 104, passed away peacefully Friday, March 20, 2026. He was born September 28, 1921, in Grafton, to the late Walter and Marie Dalton. He lived a life marked by hard work, service, and devotion to family.
Francis worked as a coal miner for the Consolidated Coal Co., a career defined by perseverance and strength that characterized his entire life.
His service to his country was distinguished and courageous. Francis served 3-1/2 years of active duty in the United States Army, where he earned the Purple Heart in recognition of his bravery and sacrifice, as well as two bronze stars and one silver star. His military service stood as a testament to his commitment to his nation and the sacrifices he made for the freedom and security of others.
Francis is survived by his stepchildren, Pat Ryan (Sandy), Joyce Fizer, and Terry Bailes (Steve); stepgrandchildren, Chris Fizer, Brian Fizer (Angie), Scott Ryan (Delilah), Heather Bailes Baker (Sam), and Stephanie Brown (Josh); sister, Charlene Sanders (Marvin); daughter-in- law, Carol Dalton; brother-in-law, Jack Dawson; as well as 11 stepgreat-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Eileen Jaspar; second wife, Doris Ryan Dalton; son, Toby Lynn Dalton; brother, Warden Dalton; sisters, Wanda Jenkins, Lila Deane Cain, Marilyn Dawson, Imogene Williams, and Mary Catherine Willard; brother-in-law, Clarence Willard; half-sister, Evelyn Fike Dalton Kisner; and stepson-in-law, Randall Fizer.
Friends and family will be received in Hastings Funeral Home Thursday, March 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Friday, March 27, from 10 until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m., with Pastor Bart Thompson officiating. A committal service will follow at East Oak Grove Cemetery, with full military rites being conducted by VFW Post #9916, #548, and the United States Army.
In lieu of flowers, donations, in Francis’s memory, may be made to the West Virginia Veteran’s Nursing Facility, 1 Freedom Way, Clarksburg, WV 26301; or Bikers, Bros & Bo, Inc., P.O. Box 391, Dellslow, WV 26531.
Hastings Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Send condolences at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com
