Alton Mcfarland

Alton Garland McFarland, 81, of Jackson died Friday, November 4, 2022. Alton was born June 9, 1941 to Levy McFarland and Tessie McFarland. He graduated from Suttle High School in 1959 before enrolling in Auburn University where he earned a degree in Agribusiness in 1963. On August 29, 1963, he married the love of his life, Sandra Gail McFarland. That same year, Alton began his career as the Vocational Agricultural Teacher at Jackson High School where he earned the affectionate title "Mr. Mac". "Mr. Mac" taught at JHS for 32 years before retiring, during which time he also drove a school bus route for 18 years. During his tenure at JHS, the Future Farmers of America Gold Chapter won 124 awards at district, state and national levels. He was awarded the honorary state farmer degree in 1972, named Conservation Education of the Year in 1978 by the Alabama Wildlife Association, received the Woodmen of the World Conservation Award in 1979 and the Honorary American Degree in 1983. Alton also served as the President of the Alabama Vocational Agricultural Teaching Association from 1981-82. He also earned his master's degree from Mississippi State in 1971.

A member of First Baptist Church of Jackson, Alton served as a deacon through several rotations. He was also a past president of the Civitan Club as well as the sitting president of the Clarke County National Wild Turkey Federation. Alton was an animal lover and an avid gardener who happened to have been a state certified landscaper. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and just being outdoors.

Alton is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Sandra McFarland; daughters, Angela McFarland and Tessa McFarland; sister, Brenda (Joe) Mann nee McFarland as well as numerous former students and friends.

Services will be held Wednesday, November 9, 2022 at Lathan Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 12:30 pm until 2:00 pm. Funeral Service will be at 2:00 pm with Bro. Ben Stubblefield officiating and Lathan Funeral Home directing. Interment will follow in Trinity Memorial Gardens.

Active Pallbearers will be Harvey Little, Troy Spence, Tommy Windham, Kent Jones, Art Mosley and Darrell Beck.