Alta Reagan Gauntt

Alta Reagan Gauntt, age 91, of Forney, passed away on Friday, August 28, 2026, at her home. She was born October 20, 1934, to Minnie Opal (Langford) and Marvin Edward Reagan in Quinlan, Texas. Alta attended Draughon’s Business College, where she earned a degree in accounting. She married Elbert Manley Gauntt in 1954 in El Paso.

Anyone who knew Alta would tell you this: she was a strong-willed and formidable woman. Whether it was the daily debates with Elbert, her husband of nearly sixty years. Alta had a presence that was impossible to overlook.

She was never shy about sharing her opinion—often quicker than anyone expected—and she always had a way of making sure she was heard. Alta cherished her independence and took great pride in managing her own affairs. Until the very end, she knew what she wanted and, more importantly, exactly how she wanted it.

But behind that strong and determined spirit was a woman who deeply loved her family. Some of her happiest times were spent with her loved ones, especially when everyone gathered during the holidays. She treasured those moments—the laughter, conversations, traditions, and simply having her family together.

She also found joy in the little traditions that became special memories. Wednesdays meant going to Dairy Queen for Hamburger Day, and Fridays were for shopping with her cousins, Patricia and Louise. These simple outings brought her happiness and gave her countless memories to cherish.

One of the things she had dreamed about for years was going on a cruise. She was fortunate enough to make those dreams come true, sharing those adventures with Tona, Ann, and Jeanie (the Golden Girls). Those cruises gave her the opportunity to see new places, enjoy new experiences, and create wonderful memories with people she loved.

Alta lived life on her own terms. She was independent, strong, loving, and unforgettable. She knew what she wanted and wasn’t afraid to say it. Those who knew her will remember her strength, determination, and quick wit—quicker than Marshall Dillon’s draw in her favorite show, Gun Smoke.

But most of all, they will remember the love she had for her family. Family meant everything to Alta, and the love she gave will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

She was truly one of a kind, and there will never be another Alta.

Alta is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Diann and Randy Swartz; sister-in-law, Ann Reagan; grandchildren, Ryan Swartz and wife Melissa, Laura Perkins and husband Mitch, Meagan Mitchell and husband Joey, Aaron Gauntt and wife Amanda, and Luke Swartz; great-grandchildren, Kenleigh Perkins, Carson Mitchell, Khloe Perkins, Mixie Mitchell, River Swartz, Jackson Gauntt, Millie Swartz, and Jameson Gauntt; special sister cousins, Tona Marrs and Patricia Pippin; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elbert Gauntt; son, Gary Gauntt; father, Marvin Reagan; mother, Minnie Langford Reagan; brother, Dub Reagan; and sister, Shirley Collendrina.

Funeral services for Alta will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 10:00 am at Quinlan Funeral Home with burial to follow at Memoryland Memorial Park in Greenville. Visitation will take place on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.