Mrs. Florence DeWalt Alston, 101, of Winston-Salem, NC, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2009 at Silas Creek Manor. Mrs. Alston was born in Newberry, S.C. August 17, 1907 to the late Allen and Hattie DeWalt. A resident of Winston-Salem, NC for most of her adult life, she graduated from Drayton High School in Newberry, S.C. She continued to pursue her educational and personal interests in life, graduating from Russell's Commercial School and La-Mae Beauty College. She was a loving person who quietly went about living her life and loving her family. Mrs. Alston worked 40 years for R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. A member of St. James A.M.E. Church for over eighty years, she joyfully sang in the adult choir, was a member of the Pastor's Aid Board, Missionary Society and the Cheerful Helpers Club. She loved her church and made innumerable contributions as a faithful and committed member. She was also a member of the Winston Lake Estate Community Club and a longstanding Member of Sethos Court No. 105.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Alston was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny Oliver Alston Sr.; a son, Johnny Oliver Alston Jr.; two sisters, Mrs. Clara Brace and Mrs. Lucy Martin; and two grandchildren.

Mrs. Alston is survived by her son, Eldridge D. Alston (Shirley) of Winston-Salem; a goddaughter, Ms. Minnie Benson of the city; six grandchildren; thirteen great-grand children; seven great-great grand children; and many caring friends and relatives. They celebrate the life she was blessed to live and will forever cherish her memory.

The family wishes to express deep gratitude to the staff that loved and served Mrs. Alston at Silas Creek Manor, as well as the Hospice and Palliative Care Unit at Forsyth Medical Center.

The Funeral Service will be held at 12 noon, Tuesday, February 17, 2009 at St. James A.M.E. Church with Rev. Benjamin Humphrey officiating. Interment will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11:30 a.m. until 12 noon Tuesday at the church.