Alton Reed Oxendine, age 82, was born on August 29, 1942, in Robeson County, NC to the late Calton and Daisy Lee Oxendine.  He passed away on July 31, 2025, in Virginia, surrounded by love and family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Celia Sue “Susie” Oxendine; his parents, Calton Oxendine, Daisy Lee Oxendine; his sisters, Joyce Oxendine and Dessie Lowry; and his brothers, Calton Jeff Oxendine, Jr., Thorold Anthony Oxendine, and Marty Glenn Oxendine.

Left to honor his memory are his three daughters: Cheryl Oxendine and Suzette Oxendine, both of Virginia Beach, and Kachina Oxendine of Richmond, VA.  He is also survived by his brother, Merlin Bryant Oxendine, and sisters Jan Ellen Oxendine and Twyla Oxendine Paulk – along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will continue to cherish his life and legacy.

Alton Oxendine was a proud member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, based in Pembroke, NC.  He graduated from Pembroke High School and Pembroke State University (now the University of North Carolina at Pembroke) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry.

Alton served in the National Guard before starting his professional career at Newport News Shipbuilding.  He later dedicated over 30 years of service to the Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth where he was highly regarded as the “Father of Industrial Hygiene” for the U.S. Navy.

He established the first industrial hygiene laboratory for the U.S. Navy in Portsmouth, VA, a pioneering effort that inspired the creation of a similar lab in San Diego, CA.  As an Industrial Hygienist, Marine Chemist, and Certified Safety Professional, Alton developed a comprehensive program for routine annual inspections of industrial workplaces specifically at U.S. Naval installations in the Tidewater area.  At his retirement celebration, nearly every manager he ever had – commissioned officers and civilian leaders – were in attendance.  In addition, numerous military industrial hygienists came to personally thank him for the profound impact he had on their career.  Alton was deeply respected for his commitment, diligence, passion, and integrity.

Regarding his personal life, Alton cherished his wife and children, and found joy spending time with family and friends.  He had a love for music, especially the oldies, and could often be found dancing, singing and laughing.  Alton was an outdoorsman at heart – he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and working on cars.  His appreciation for nature and hands-on hobbies reflected his grounded spirit and curiosity.  Every Sunday, you could count on Alton to be relaxing and enjoying NASCAR, a tradition that brought him peace and excitement.

Alton was a devoted, caring, and loving husband, father, brother, son, uncle, friend, and provider.  He was known for his gift of storytelling, quick wit, and reputation as a true “Jack of all trades.” He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, friends, neighbors, and his work.  Alton’s spirit will continue to inspire and uplift all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of life service for Alton will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Revels Funeral Home, 407 Breece St., Pembroke, NC  28372 from 3pm – 5pm.  Following the service, family and friends will gather at Union Chapel Methodist Church (Fellowship Hall) to share memories and fellowship with one another, 3546 Evergreen Church Rd., Pembroke, NC  28372.  Catering to be provided by Papa Bill’s BBQ and Pizza Hut.  Please come share in the celebration of Alton’s life.

Virginia services will be added to the obituary at a later date.  Cremation Society of Virginia, Chesapeake Office, is assisting the family at their time of need.  Friends and family may share online condolences and memories at www.vacreamtionsociety.com