The Walton Family Foundation

Tribute to John Walton

October 8, 1946 - June 27, 2005

John T. Walton — the second child of Sam and Helen Walton — died on June 27, 2005 when his experimental plane crashed near Jackson, Wyoming. He was 57. John's death set off an outpouring of tribute for, among other things, his leadership in the campaign to bring equal educational opportunity to all American children. Some of those tributes are listed here.

"Think of the thousands of children whose lives have been enhanced because of John. They now have a future because of him. There are future doctors, lawyers, engineers, computer programmers, video game creators, nurses, teachers, investment bankers, elected officials, and ministers that will make their mark on this world because of John."

"He talked to each child around him as if they were the most important person in the world... He always reminded me of the importance of helping even one person, even though his legacy is to have helped thousands."

"John was one of the finest men I've ever known: gentle, incisive, courageous, passionate, self-effacing and utterly committed to making good on the promise of educational opportunity for all children... He continues to lead us through his inspiration, his example, and his unflagging spirit, which are eternal."

"We will never be able to replace his calm leadership, his focus on progress, his tireless energy and passion to produce meaningful results. I feel honored to have known him and I pledge to continue his work until every child has the opportunity to receive a quality education."

"John, you are deeply loved by all whose lives you touched, especially the children you cared so much about, who had little and whose only chance to thank you is through their prayers."

"We could never adequately thank him for all he did for us. The only way for us to deal with our loss of him is to fight even harder for the cause that he helped so mightily. I feel so lucky to have fought alongside him, even if the time was much too short."

"John Walton brought many gifts into our lives but his greatest gift was his trust and his confidence... He was willing to risk what he owned for what and whom he believed in."

"John Walton was substance over style, and his impact on the world dwarfs that of a thousand flashy men."

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