Leon Walton

Country music legend Leon S. Walton, known professionally as Leon Ashley passed away Sunday morning at his home in Hendersonville, TN after an extended illness.

Leon Walton was born on May 18, 1936 in Mansfield, GA. He began his long career at age nine performing on a local radio show.

In 1967, Leon founded Ashley Records. In that same year, he released the #1 record "Laura (What's He Got That I Ain't Got)" making him the first country music artist to write, publish, record, perform, and distribute a #1 recording on his own independent record label.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Margie Singleton Walton, sons Leon Walton Jr. of Covington, GA and Tommy Walton of Mansfield, GA, stepsons Stephen and Sidney Singleton of Nashville, TN, ten grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and long-time business partner and manager, Linda Denny.

The family will hold a private service and in lieu of flowers, requests that donations be made to MusiCares.

HENDERSONVILLE FUNERAL HOME 353 JOHNNY CASH PKWY HENDERSONVILLE TN 37075 615-824-3855 springfieldfh.wpengine.com