Wilton Theron Hataway, 82, affectionately known as “Moose,” passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 11, 2015, after suffering a stroke.

He was born on Oct. 27, 1932, near Atmore to Theron and Louise (Wearren) Hataway.

He leaves a legacy of service to his country, to his family and to the many friends he made along he way. He enjoyed genealogy and anything to do with history and politics.

He retired in 2003 after 47 years of civil service with the U.S. Air Force. Most recently, he served as a supervisor electronic engineer at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois. His prior military experience also included the U.S. Army and the Alabama Army National Guard. A loyal Tigers fan, Moose graduated from Auburn University in 1958, received his certification as a professional engineer in 1968, and was a lifetime member of the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Laura Dailey Hataway. They attended high school together in Atmore, where Moose was a member of the Barnes Boys football team, earning the nickname “Moose” for the fierce determination he showed on and off the field. Married at the tender age of 18, Moose and Laura never left each other’s side through good times and bad. Together they had seven children while building a stable home life during several military transfers.

Moose was the patriarch of son, George (Debbie) Hataway of Gulfport, Miss.; son, Joel (Susan) Hataway of Lee’s Summit, Mo.; daughter, Laura Anne (Joe) Smith of Bowling Green, Mo.; daughter, Leah (Bill) Gleason of Elmhurst, Ill.; daughter, Linda (Dan) Findley of Destin, Fla.; daughter, Lise Hataway of Windermere, Fla.; and son, John (Aisha) Hataway of Shiloh, Illinois.

A loving and doting grandfather, Moose never held a baby who didn’t melt in his arms. “Pappa Moosey” will be dearly missed by Jacob, Bella and Maya Hataway; Jamie, Lucie, and Alana Gleason; Allison Hataway; Andrew Hataway; Katherine (Nick) Becchina; Wesley Shumack; Jennifer Hataway; and Cassie (Scott) Zingery.

Graveside funeral services, with military honors, will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery in Pollard, on Wednesday, June 17, at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Floyd Dyal officiating.

Craver’s Funeral Home will be directing.

Please share your memories and condolences with the family at www.craversfh.com.