It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Jean "Walter" Gleaton of Neeses, South Carolina on November 2, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 20, 1939 , and will be remembered as a devoted family man, a man of faith, and someone who found joy in honest work and the outdoors.

Walter was called by God and became an ordained bishop of the Church of God to serve multiple congregations in South Carolina. He came out of retirement to be the Bishop of Corner Stone Church of God for many years, a role that reflected the importance of faith in his life and the care he extended to others through his ministry. He loved to tell others the story of Jesus and his love and about how God rescued him and gave him a life of purpose sharing God’s word.

Walter was a carpenter by trade for many years, a calling that reflected both skill and dedication. He was known as “the preacher” at Carolina Eastman where he worked. He also served in the United States Army and the Army National Guard. In his life beyond work, he enjoyed farming and being outdoors, pursuits that suited his steady spirit and love for simple, meaningful living.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 65 years, Loudelle Gleaton. He also leaves behind his children, Cynthia Hoover (Mark), Tina Gainey (Ricky), Samuel Walter Gleaton, Lisa Johnson, Kimberly Evans (Bryan), and Robin Brown (Brandon), who carry forward his memory and the love of their father. Walter is also survived by eight grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, his sisters, Edith Williams and Nina Anthony, and by his brothers, Wilton, Wesley, Kenneth, and Richard Gleaton. His family will remember him with deep love and gratitude, holding close the example of his strength, faith, and enduring presence in their lives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jacob Gleaton; his mother, Louvie Gleaton; his brother, Nathaniel Baltzegar; his son-in-law Wells Johnson; and his grandchildren, Joshua Gainey and Nicholas Brown. Their memories remained part of his life and are now joined with his in eternal rest.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Sunny Vista Church of God, 3021 Dragstrip Road, North 29112. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Sunny Vista Church of God with burial at the church cemetery. Rev. Bobby Gene Williams will be officiating. 

Pallbearers will be Mike Gleaton, Brian Gainey, Brian Gleaton, David Bailey, Landon Bailey and Bryan Evans.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Grove Park Hospice especially Vickie Osborne and also Gail Phillips for their love, support and care.

Jean "Walter" Gleaton will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. May his life, his faith, and the love he shared with his family continue to be remembered and cherished.