(1918–92), U.S. executive, born in Kingfisher, Okla.; graduated from Univ. of Missouri 1940; management trainee for J.C. Penney; operated Ben Franklin variety store franchises under the name Walton's 5 & 10; in 1962 created and became head of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., a chain of discount stores carrying brand-name merchandise; made surprise visits to his stores and believed in rewarding his workers; created Sam's Wholesale Clubs, where people pay to be a member and in turn receive substantial discounts on various items; autobiography ‘Made in America: My Story'.