Dalton Lane

Dalton Smith Lane, a beloved resident of Silsbee, Texas, was born on December 17, 1946, and passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025.  Having spent the majority of his life in his hometown, Dalton’s life was marked by dedication to his family, church, community, and country.

Dalton graduated from Waldo Mathews High School in 1965 and went on to attend Prairie View A&M University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration in 1969. Shortly after completing his education, Dalton proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1969 to 1973, demonstrating his commitment to his country during a pivotal time in American history.

Dalton enjoyed a distinguished career with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, where he dedicated 37 years of service.  As a Manager/Area Manager, he oversaw operations in southeast Texas, earning recognition for his professional excellence, including the “Boss of the Year” award from the Neches Chapter of the American Business Women Association for the years 1993-1994.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dalton was deeply involved in his community. He served on the board of directors for the Silsbee Ice House Museum, contributing to the preservation of local history. His commitment to civil rights was evident during his tenure as president of the Silsbee chapter of the NAACP.  A man of faith, Dalton was a proud member of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Silsbee, where he was ordained as a Deacon. Later, he transferred his membership to Cathedral of Faith Baptist Church in Beaumont, Texas, where he served as a Greeter until 2020, when COVID-19 restrictions limited his activities.

Dalton’s family was the cornerstone of his life. He married Marie Louise Trotty on September 27, 1969, and together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Marie, children: Jeffery Andrews (Stephanie) and Kristy Bolling (LaVarion), along with four grandchildren: Jeffery Andrews, Jr (Elizabeth), Jamar Andrews (Ke’Njanai), Jayden Bolling and Madison Bolling and six great-grandchildren. Dalton is also survived by his siblings: sisters Rebecca Scott (Allen), Debra Ealy (Bernard), Imojeanette Thompson (Charles), and brother John Dennis Lane, Jr. (Paula) and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Dennis Lane, Sr. and Imogene Smith Lane.

In his personal life, Dalton had a variety of interests that brought him joy. He enjoyed watching Westerns and horror movies and he had a passion for grilling, boxing, and track and field. His favorite Bible scripture, Philippians 4:13, encapsulated his faith and personal philosophy: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Dalton Smith Lane leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication that will be cherished by all who knew him. His contributions to his family, community, and country will not be forgotten, and he will be deeply missed.

A private service for Mr. Lane will be held at a later date. His cremation arrangements were handled through Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 490 Cemetery Road, Silsbee.