Wilton Collins Talkington, Jr., 82, of Beaumont, peacefully passed away at home Saturday, June 26, 2010. Wilton was born February 1, 1928, in Marshall, Texas, to Lucy Mae Carnahan and Wilton Collins Talkington, Sr. Wilton graduated from Lamar University with a degree in Sociology. He had served in the Merchant Marine and was a free lance photographer and a retired claims representative for the Social Security Administration.

Wilton was an amateur ham radio operator, a member of the Golden Triangle Gun Club and enjoyed flying radio controlled airplanes and shooting his guns at the target range. He also enjoyed reading poetry, listening to classical music and opera, and discussing philosophy. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with the apple of his eye, his grandson, Tommy.

Survivors include the daughter he adored with all his heart, Lou Arrington and her husband, Mark, of Beaumont; grandson, Tommy Arrington; special friend, Amy Matalas of California; and other loving relatives.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Flora Talkington; and an infant son, Walter Talkington.

His funeral service will be 11:00am, Friday, July 9, 2010, at Calder Baptist Church, 1005 North 11th Street, Beaumont with burial to follow at Magnolia Cemetery under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A gathering of his family and friends will begin at 5:00 pm Thursday, July 8, 2010, at Broussard’s.

Memorial contributions may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Avenue, Miami, Florida, 33136.