Photo by Ironside Photography / Stephen Ironside.
Alice Louise Walton, born on October 7, 1949, in Newport, Arkansas, is an American heiress and art patron, renowned as the daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. As of March 2025, she holds the title of the world’s richest woman, with an estimated net worth of $121 billion.
Early Life and Education
Alice Walton grew up in Bentonville, Arkansas, alongside her three brothers: S. Robson Walton, Jim Walton, and the late John T. Walton. She pursued higher education at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and finance in 1971.
Career and Business Ventures
Unlike her brothers, who took active roles in Walmart’s operations, Alice Walton carved her own path in the financial sector. She began her career as an equity analyst and money manager for First Commerce Corporation and later served as head of investment activities at Arvest Bank Group. Walton also worked as a broker for EF Hutton.
In 1988, she founded the Llama Company, an investment bank where she served as president, chairwoman, and CEO. The firm was involved in various financial services, including corporate finance, public and structured finance, and real estate finance. However, the company ceased operations in 1998.
Walton also played a pivotal role in the development of the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport, serving as the first chairperson of the Northwest Arkansas Council. Her leadership was instrumental in the airport’s opening in 1998.
Art Patronage and Philanthropy
A passionate art collector, Alice Walton has amassed an impressive collection of American art over the years. Her dedication to the arts culminated in the establishment of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, which opened its doors in 2011. The museum houses a vast array of works from American masters, reflecting Walton’s commitment to making art accessible to the public.
Personal Life
Alice Walton has been married and divorced twice and does not have any children. Throughout her life, she has faced personal challenges, including involvement in multiple automobile accidents. In 1983, she suffered severe injuries in a car crash near Acapulco, Mexico. Six years later, in 1989, she was involved in an accident that resulted in the death of a pedestrian, though no charges were filed. In 1998, Walton was arrested for driving under the influence, leading to a fine.
Current Endeavors
Beyond her art patronage, Alice Walton continues to influence various sectors through her philanthropic efforts. She remains actively involved in initiatives that promote arts education and access, reflecting her enduring commitment to cultural enrichment.
Alice Walton’s journey from the heart of America’s retail empire to becoming a leading figure in the art world underscores her multifaceted contributions to business and culture.
