Gerald Orton, 83 of Castroville, passed away on October 21, 2018 after a year-long battle with cancer. He was born January 5, 1935 in Highlands, Texas to Joe Orton and Adell Young Orton.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Adell Orton and by his brothers, Harold Orton and Norman Orton.
Gerald was raised in Baytown, Texas. In his youth, he was a standout quarterback for Baytown Lee High School, in the Houston area. He received numerous offers from several universities, including USC, and ultimately signed to play quarterback for the Texas Longhorns in 1954. He was a veteran of the United States Army, as his football career was cut short by his entry into service shortly after the end of the Korean Conflict. He spent two years in the Army during the Korean War and was Honorably Discharged with a disability in 1957. Upon his return from serving in the war, he attended Sam Houston State University and graduated in 1959. On July 2, 1959, Gerald married Lee Hargrave in Baytown. He worked as a sales representative for a pharmaceutical company before becoming a sales representative for Cavender Cadillac in San Antonio.
He was an avid golfer, and his family credits his grandson’s golf skills to his tutelage. He had a “green thumb,” and his lawn was always meticulously and beautifully landscaped. Regardless of how many times his son-in-law tried, he could never replicate the succulent smoked pork loin and other delicious creations that came off of his smoker. Gerald never met a stranger, as he greeted others with a big smile, a firm handshake or a hug. His family will miss him greatly, as will all who knew him.
Survivors will remember his love of family, his kindness and his Christian spirit. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Lee Orton; daughter, Leslie Haby and husband Mark; son, Guy Orton and wife Kortney; grandchildren, Meaghan, Hannah and Connor.
Visitation will be Friday, November 2, 2018 starting at 10:00 am at Medina Valley United Methodist Church, followed by a Memorial Service with Military Honors at 11:00 am. Memorials may be made in Gerald’s memory to Medina Valley United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home.