James Walton Aldridge, Jr. was born November 12, 1955, in Florence, Alabama. He was a loving son, an amazing husband, a devoted brother, a kind father and a faithful friend. After a long and courageous battle with illness, Walt safely entered the arms of Jesus on November 19, 2025. His faith kept him strong amid the hardest battles. He was assured of Heaven and knew that his complete healing was waiting for him just on the other side of the veil.
Walt spent most of his life in the Muscle Shoals area. He was an award-winning musician, singer, songwriter, engineer and record producer. He began his career at Fame Studios working closely with Rick Hall and many other amazing musicians. He has had many songs recorded by various artists and achieved the great honor of being inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.
Walt’s other interests included hunting, fishing, traveling, and woodworking. But his most loved hobby was his garden. He proudly grew his vegetables and flowers every year. He often said it made him feel connected to his own Dad.
More than anything else, though, he loved his family! His greatest joy came from time spent with them.
Walt was preceded in death by his father and mother, James and Peggy Aldridge and his Brother-In-Law, Toby Faucett. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie, his children, Rachael Stolt (Matt) and Hannah Aldridge, and his bonus children Stephen Kirk (Jenna), Justin Kirk (Taylor), Kelly Allen (Josh) and Christian Kirk; nine grandchildren…Jackson Hillin, Penelope Allen, Emelia Allen, Ellison Allen, Lillian Stolt, Arrie Allen, Harrison Stolt, Mila Kirk, and Wrenly Allen. Walt is also survived by his loving sister, Ramona Faucett (Bunny). Walt had a large extended family as well.
Walt spent approximately 10 years serving as a Professor in the Entertainment Industry Department at the University of North Alabama. As a gift to the family, the Entertainment Department is hosting the funeral services for Walt at The Mane Room, located at 310 N Pine St, Florence, AL. Visitation will be Saturday, November 22, 2025, 12:00pm – 2:00pm. Service will immediately follow visitation. Burial will be at Greenview Memorial Park located at 3657 Old Chisholm Rd., Florence AL following the service.
If preferred, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Walt Aldridge Entertainment Industry Scholarship. Checks may be sent to: UNA Foundation, UNA, Box 5113, Florence, AL 35632. Reference the Walt Aldridge Entertainment Industry Scholarship.
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