Tony Walden

Hinton M. "Tony" Walden, 68, a resident of Brantley, Alabama, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 23rd, 2023. The family will hold a private celebration of Tony's life at a later time.

Tony's life was work, and hard work at that. That was the Walden way of life and he was initiated in it from birth. When friends were at parties and spending down time at the lake, he was working clearing timber and raising cattle. Many might have resented it, but not Tony. He truly loved what he did and that love lasted throughout his life. There was nothing he loved more than taking care of his land and his herd. Let everyone else go golfing and fishing, Tony could never be happier than he was while doing what he loved. Tony was a socialable kind of guy and always personable with others, but he didn't do small talk. However, if you wanted to discuss some land or cattle you owned over in Texas, he could converse for hours!

Now, that's not to say he didn't know how to enjoy time away. He loved going to the beach with his family as well as cattleman conventions. Tony and Terry also thoroughly enjoyed the time they spent with their friends and cherished every moment together at events they hosted. Starting in the 1980s, Tony and Terry began putting on what became the biggest Charolais Cattle sale east of the Mississippi. These were huge events that involved sales, dinners, and entertainment and they enjoyed it despite the hard work it entailed.

Tony was a graduate of Brantley High School and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Troy State University in business. It was there that he met the love of his life, Terry Hanna, and they went on to enjoy working together in running Walden Farms throughout most of their marriage. They were constant companions and proved you actually can work together with your spouse and still make a marriage work!! They would later bring their daughter into the business and continued the family tradition of bonding through work. Still, it wasn't all work. Not only did they enjoy their trips and spending time with friends, but Tony loved to cheer on the Auburn Tigers during the football season. He was also a member of Brantley Methodist Church throughout most of his life, but one of his biggest passions was serving as a booster and supporter of Crenshaw Christian Academy. Tony was a huge part of his family's lives and the hole he leaves behind may seem overwhelming, but they will continue to keep his memory alive in their hearts and minds for many more years to come.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Hinton & Juanita Mallette Walden. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 47 years, Terry Hanna Walden; their daughter, Hanna Walden Mitchell; grandchildren, Walden Mitchell and Reese Mitchell; and cherished canine companion, Jax.