Joseph Dalton Jr., a pastor in Delco

The Rev. Joseph C. Dalton Jr., 84, of Ridley Park, a Baptist pastor in Delaware County for many years, died Friday, Nov. 6, of heart failure at home.

Born in Chester to Joseph and Agnes Dalton, Mr. Dalton graduated from Nether Providence High School in 1949. He enlisted in the Air Force and served as a B-36 radar mechanic.

He loved the church and dedicated his life to living his faith, his family said.

Mr. Dalton was licensed for Gospel ministry in 1953 and ordained at Handley Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. He received the degree of bachelor of science in Bible studies from Philadelphia College of Bible in 1962.

His initial assignment was at the First Baptist Church of Crum Lynne, Delaware County. After that, he served as pastor for the First Baptist Church of Seaford, Del.; Congressional Heights Baptist Church near Rockville, Md.; and Brookhaven Baptist Church in Brookhaven.

His longest engagement was as pastor at Victoria Chapel in Springfield Township, Delaware County, where he worked for 30 years until the time of his death.

Mr. Dalton was a member of the state and regional boards of American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware.

Outside the church, he volunteered as an EMT for the Brookhaven and Parkside Fire Companies; was an avid train enthusiast and gardener; and listened to music.

"He also enjoyed studying about history, reading about history, and talking about history," his family said.

Mr. Dalton was married to Betty Foster, who died earlier.

He is survived by his wife, Maryanne Dalton; daughters Debi, Judi, Kathy, Betsi, and Stefanie; sons Dave and Jay; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a sister.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Upland Baptist Church, 325 Main St., Upland, Pa. 19015. Interment is private.

Donations may be made to Victoria Chapel, 1459 Baltimore Pike, Springfield, Pa. 19064, or Upland Baptist Church at the address above.

bcook@phillynews.com

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