With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Alton Sessions, 71, of Andrews, SC, an Air Force Veteran, who passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025.

Obituary

"A Deferred Life"

Alton Sessions was born on September 22, 1954, in Andrews, South Carolina, to James Sessions, Sr., of the lineage of Abraham and Lucille Sessions, and Mazie Jeletha Watson, of the lineage of Moses and Matilda Watson. Alton was born on Birch Creek.

Shortly after his birth, he and his mother traveled back North rejoining his father and siblings at their home in Rochester, New York. Growing up surrounded by the love and strength of his family, Alton received a strong academic foundation, developed his sense of discipline and quick-wittedness, explored his creativity, and embraced a warm-hearted nature that would define his life.

Alton was a man with a remarkable sense of duty and a tireless work ethic. Whether in school, on the job, or in military service, he approached every endeavor with faithfulness, dedication, and pride. He had an eye for fashion, a gift for marketing and merchandising, and a distinctive personal style. Even as a young boy, he collected stamps and coins, enjoyed drawing, and possessed an easy laugh. He loved to travel, to learn, and when the moment allowed to relax and "the love of loafing" at every available moment. Above all, he carried a heart of gold: loving, generous, and always devoted to his family.

Alton also had a deep love for genealogy and family history. He was often the go-to person for information about the family's past, serving as a historian who researched and preserved the stories of ancestors, providing family photos and chronicling the lineage for generations to come. Alton graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School in Rochester, New York, in 1973. Soon after, he continued modeling with Upstate Professional Models, showcasing both his confidence and love of fashion. It was during this time he was employed with Casa De Hombre, a high-end clothier, and also worked at McCurdy's Department Store, where he dressed mannequins and created displays that highlighted both his creativity and sharp fashion sense.

During the five years after high school and prior to his enlistment, Alton remained committed to the educational values instilled in him from childhood. He enrolled in the Rochester Manpower Skills Center, completing training as an Account Clerk and Clerk Typist, and later continued his studies at Bryant & Stratton College and Monroe Community College in pursuit of a Business Administration degree. On May 19, 1978, Alton enlisted in the United States Air Force in Buffalo, New York, beginning an eight-year military career marked by distinction. He was commissioned as an officer on March 1, 1982, and served honorably as a sergeant. His faithful service earned him numerous awards, including the Strategic Air Command Combat Crew Recognition (1980), Senior Airman Certificate of Achievement (1981), and Sergeant Certificate of Appointment (1982).

Alton's dream—one he held with great pride—was to be a lifelong career Air Force man. That dream was deferred when, at age 28, he sustained life-threatening injuries while stationed in Germany on March 17, 1983. Despite the severity of his injuries, he was able to continue serving out his assigned duty for a short time at Walter Reed Veterans Hospital in Washington, D.C., until his strength could no longer support his career choice.

He separated from active service on April 2, 1984, and formally retired from the Air Force on October 3, 1986. Alton lived approximately six years in Virginia during his recovery, supported by the care of McGuire Veterans Hospital and the unwavering devotion of his mother and supportive brother, James Jr. Eventually regaining his independence, he returned to his birthplace and, in 1993, built a home in Andrews, South Carolina—a home he adored and where he resided until his passing.

Alton was a philanthropist and always willing to help as evidenced by his charitable giving, specifically his support of the Veterans Association of America, Inc. New York, NY. As a published author and poet, Alton used words to express both his insight, his soulful nature, and would
often share his created written pieces when he entertained in his home. He took great pride in creating warm, lively spaces for gatherings. He remained steadfastly supportive of his nieces and nephews, and leaves to cherish his devoted nephew Tywan, who was committed and loyal during his times of need. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother James Jr., and other beloved family members. Throughout his life,
Alton received loving support from many, but especially from his devoted mother and his beloved sister Peggy, whose care strengthened him during his most difficult years.

He is survived by six devoted siblings: Hazel Sessions, Richmond, VA; Clephos, Sr. (Janet), Chester, VA; Peggy Page, Chesterfield, VA; Floyd, Sr. (Norma), Chesterfield, VA; Alphonso, Chesterfield, VA; and Ricky, Sr. (Patricia), Chesterfield, VA and a host of family and friends throughout the nation and world. Alton will be remembered for his sharp wit, intelligence, faithfulness, and heart of gold. His legacy lives on in every life he touched—with love, generosity, and grace that will not be forgotten. His journey was defined by purpose, compassion, and a deep sense of family.

Alton departed this life at his home on Monday, November 10, 2025, in Andrews, South Carolina. May his gentle spirit rest in eternal peace.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Andrews, SC. 843-354-2292.