Alton Ray McAlister, 85, of Tyler County, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, August 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on April 28, 1940, in Woodville, Texas, Alton was the son of Walter Booth McAlister and Berdell Broom McAlister. A lifelong resident of Tyler County—aside from a few cherished years spent in Madisonville, Texas—Alton lived a life marked by service, hard work, and deep devotion to his family.
As a boy, he was a proud Cub Scout, played high school football, and graduated from Kirby High School. Shortly after graduation, Alton answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Navy, where his time at sea fostered a lifelong love for the ocean. This passion led him to a remarkable 37-year career as a merchant marine with Gulf Oil, where he rose to the rank of Chief Engineer. He continued his maritime career with both American Heavy Lift and American Hawaii Cruises in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Upon retiring from the sea, Alton’s adventurous spirit took him in new directions. He operated a chicken farm in Madisonville before beginning a second career as a real estate agent, which he enjoyed for six years. No matter the role, he brought diligence, pride, and a steadfast work ethic to everything he did.
Alton found the greatest joy in life through simple pleasures: sharing stories with friends, cracking open boiled peanuts, savoring cracklins, and listening to Elvis Presley. Above all, he loved spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband to Eunice Murl McAlister, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage, and a dedicated father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Alton was a faithful member of Dogwood Hills Baptist Church for 25 years, and his kindness, strength, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Eunice McAlister; their children: Michele Martindale and her late husband Sidney J. Martindale III, Hollis and Carrie McAlister, and Rich and Sharon Kubala; and his grandchildren: Cole and Allie McAlister, Claire McAlister, Cale and Holly Leopard, Julia Kubala, Grace Kubala, Cody McAlister, and Will Kubala. He is also survived by his great-grandchild, Emerie Leopard.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Dogwood Hills Baptist Church, with funeral services following at 5 p.m. Burial will follow at Magnolia Cemetery in Woodville.
Alton Ray McAlister’s legacy of love, loyalty, and laughter will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Services are held under the direction of Riley Funeral Home, Woodville, Texas.
