Alton DeVone (A.D.) Markham, 55, passed away unexpectedly at his home Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012.

He was born April 29, 1957, in Ocala, Fla.

Alton moved to Arcadia, Fla., 45 years ago, with his family from Lehigh Acres, Fla. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of Calvary Baptist Church of Arcadia.

DeVone was retired after working for the State of Florida for 25 years, as a correctional officer, where he obtained the rank of captain. He enjoyed spending his time playing golf with friends and was a member of The Bluffs Country Club. Alton loved fishing and belonged to the Ridge Angler Bass Club, he also played softball and enjoyed working in his yard gardening. DeVone served our country in the National Guard. He was a graduate of DeSoto High School, Class of 1975. DeVone was married 37 years ago, to love of his life, Deborah E. (DeLoach) Markham. He and Debbie have two children, Deric D. (Rebecca) Markham of Fort Myers, Fla., and Anna C.”Chris” (Keith) Napoli of Gainesville, Fla.

He is survived by his brothers, George A. (Christina) Markham Jr. of Lake Placid, Fla., Lloyd (Sharon) Markham of Tallahassee, Fla., William B. (Mandy) Markham of Newnan, Ga.; sister, Drema (Eddie) Gottsman of Florida, and Sissy (Harvey) McKee of Warrenton, N.C.; step-mother, Verona Markham of Norlina, N.C.; aunt, Clarice Markham of Holder, Fla.; grandchildren, Cordelia Markham, and Angelina Napoli; numerous nieces and nephews. DeVone was preceded in death by his parents, George A Markham Sr., and Corine Prestridge; and sister, Sherane Markham.

A visitation will be held from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, 2012, at the chapel of Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes, 50 N. Hillsborough Ave., Arcadia. Funeral Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, at Calvary Baptist Church, 1509 E. Oak St., Arcadia, with Rev. Rick Nations and Rev. Lloyd Markham officiating. Burial will follow at Joshua Creek Cemetery of Arcadia. Online condolences can be made at pongerkaysgrady.com.

Arrangements are by Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes.