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Billionaire Profile
Christy Walton
Global Rank
#109

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Christy Walton

CEO, Walmart
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$21.8B
As of December 2025
Age
76
Source
Walmart
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
US

Biography

Christy Walton is an American billionaire heiress and philanthropist, primarily known for her substantial wealth derived from her late husband John T. Walton's inheritance from Walmart, the world's largest retailer. Born in Jackson, Wyoming, in 1949, she has maintained a relatively private life while focusing on philanthropy. Her net worth is estimated to be $21.8 billion as of 2024, placing her among the world's wealthiest individuals. Walton's career is marked by her significant contribution to philanthropy, with a focus on education, environmental conservation, and the arts. Her approach to wealth management extends beyond retail, encompassing investments in sustainability and renewable energy, allowing her to stay among the top billionaires.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Christy Ruth Walton (née Tallant) was born on February 8, 1949, in Jackson, Wyoming. Growing up in a middle-class family, little is known about her early life prior to her marriage. She graduated from high school.

Rise to Success

Christy Walton gained prominence after marrying John T. Walton, one of the sons of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Upon John's death in a 2005 plane crash, she inherited a significant portion of his wealth, which included a substantial stake in Walmart and investments in First Solar. Her inheritance made her one of the richest women in the world for several years.

Key Business Strategies

Christy Walton's wealth primarily comes from her stake in Walmart, and she has also invested in First Solar. She has also invested in film production, founding Tenaja Productions in 2009. The company produced the film adaptation of "Bless Me, Ultima" in 2012.

Philanthropy

Christy Walton is known for her philanthropic activities. She has supported education, conservation, and arts through the Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation. She was also a prominent donor to The Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump super-PAC.

Career Milestones

2005

Inheritance

Inherited a significant fortune from her late husband, John T. Walton, including stakes in Walmart.

2012

Film Production

Produced the film adaptation of "Bless Me, Ultima" through her production company, Tenaja Productions.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Community Support

Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation

$3.5B (2002-2006)

Supports education and benefits institutions of higher education and various community trusts, universities and foundations.

Controversies & Challenges

2005

Inheritance Controversy

Court records revealed that Christy Walton did not inherit the majority of her husband's estate, with most of it going to her son, Lukas.