Dalton "Daldon" Lee Close

Dalton “Daldon” Lee Close, 16, of Botetourt, Virginia, made his journey to Heaven on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. For 14 months, Dalton bravely battled a brain tumor with bright smiles, enduring laughter, and an unwavering faith in the Lord. His strong sense of family and his ability to create meaningful bonds wherever he went were among his greatest gifts. His family, church friends, and school community surrounded him with constant support and immeasurable love throughout his journey.

Dalton was a rising senior at Lord Botetourt High School, where he enjoyed his favorite teachers and friends—affectionately known as “Dalton’s Crew”— with jokes, encouragement, and good times. His buddies showed up relentlessly, offering kindness, laughter, and companionship. Whether playing Xbox, Brawl Stars, or singing worship songs throughout the house, Dalton’s voice carried down the hall and made every heart smile.

In addition to being our bright light, “Dalty” loved worship music, the Dallas Cowboys, soccer, pickleball, shooting pool with his brother Titus, and teasing his sissy, Tinsley.

Surviving Dalton are his parents, Tim and Dana Close; brother, Titus Close; sister, Tinsley Close; grandparents Donald and Patsy Horton, and Dennis and Judy Close; Aunt Lana Horton; uncles Jamie (Deidra) Close and Mike (Valerie) Close; and honorary aunt and uncle, Dana and Jim Peterson. He is also cherished by many great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, and extended family.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 4 PM to 7 PM at Fincastle Baptist Church, 70330 Roanoke Road, Fincastle, VA 24090. A service to Honor and Celebrate Dalton’s life will begin at 7 PM with Pastor Kevin Cummings officiating. Interment will be private.

One of Dalton’s passions was contributing to his church’s fund to build a future student center. He believed deeply in creating a place where students could come together and grow in their faith. In honor of his life and commitment, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Fincastle Baptist Church Student Center Fund. Contributions may be made online at www.fincastlebaptist.org/give or via text at (844) 761-0991.