Gretna……….Paul David Dalton, age 88 of Gretna died Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at Gretna Health and Rehab Center surrounded by his family.

Born January 17, 1936 in Pittsylvania County, he was a son of the late Willie David Dalton and Mary Neal Dalton.  He was predeceased by three brothers, Elton Dalton, Acie Dalton and Clyde Dalton.

At a young age Paul began learning to play musical instruments, most of which were self-taught. There were not many stringed instruments he did not play. His interest in music, especially bluegrass, led him to form the "Paul Dalton and the Bluegrass Buddies" band that performed at fiddler's conventions and other events throughout the area for many years. For more than 20 years, Paul and his band volunteered their talents and time to entertain residents of Gretna Health & Rehabilitation. Paul may have been best known for his quick wit and humor; for many years he teamed with James Atkins to perform as the comedy duo of "Jasper and James" at events to benefit the Danville Chapter of the March of Dimes, Gretna Pace Club and many other organizations.  Paul retired after more than 30 years with Amos Fine Foods / Gretna Mick-or-Mack, but his true passion was farming.  He took great pride in his tobacco crops.  Paul was a recipient of the Merchants Association of Gretna "Citizen of the Year." He loved beagles, was an avid rabbit hunter, co-founder and lifetime member of Brushy Mountain Hunt Club and he enjoyed watching The Andy Griffith Show.

He is survived by two sons, Mike Dalton and Donna Bradner of Altavista and Tony Dalton of Washington D.C.; one daughter, Ellen Mayhew and husband, Mark of Gretna; one brother, Timmy Dalton and Wanda of Gretna; two sisters, Effie Davis of Gretna and Lillian Davidson and husband, Carroll of Gretna; sister-in-law, Jane Dalton of Gretna; two grandchildren, Phillip Mayhew and wife, Hillary of Hurt and Amanda Sullivan and husband, Tylor of Richmond; three great-grandchildren, Clayton Marstin, Raylan Mayhew, and Kollyns Sullivan.

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Colbert-Moran Chapel by Rev. R.G. Rowland.  Burial will follow in Carl O. Moran Memorial Garden.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday March 16, 2024 at Colbert-Moran Funeral Home and other times will be at the residence of his daughter and son-in-law, Ellen and Mark Mayhew.

The family would like to thank the staff of Care Advantage and Gretna Health & Rehabilitation for their excellent care.

Gretna lost a legend, but we lost our Daddy, Papa and brother.

Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.