Jerry Thomas Alford, 80, of Wayne City, Illinois, passed away at 7:28 pm October 2, 2020 at his home. He was born October 3, 1939 in Heartsville, South Carolina to the late Thomas Bradley and Annabelle (Griggs) Alford. Jerry married Mary (Clementz) Alford on May 4, 1959 in Penfield, Illinois and she preceded him in death on January 4, 2018.
Jerry is survived by two sons, Dean Alford and wife, Peggy of Dallas, GA, Todd Alford and fiancée, Anne Anderson of Temple, Georgia; two grandsons, Joseph Thomas Alford and Eddy Warren Alford, both of Mount Vernon, Illinois; granddaughter, Michelle Hite and husband, Shawn of South Bend, Indiana; great-granddaughter, Morgan Hite of South Bend, Indiana; and great-grandson, Austin Hite of South Bend, Indiana.
In addition to his parents and beloved wife of fifty-eight years, Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Joseph B. Alford; twin daughters, Michelle and Ann Alford; and brother, Frank Alford.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for twenty-three years, serving as a Medic and medical services technician during the Vietnam Conflict. During his service he was awarded the U.S. Air Force Outstanding Unit Award along with the rest of the 48th Tactical Fighter Wing for meritorious service from October 14, 1976 to December 31, 1977. He ended his military service in the rank of Master Sergeant. He later worked as a Medical Technician on an oil barge in the gulf, but gave that life up after realizing working six months on and six months off at a time did not provide him with enough time at home with his family. He received his Associates Degree in Nursing and became a Licensed Practical Nurse, working for a time at the Marion VA Hospital. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed painting in his spare time as a way to keep his body and mind active. Jerry enjoyed attending the Senior Horizons classes in Fairfield and held lifetime memberships in both the VFW and the American Legion. He was dearly loved by his family and friends and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
A Graveside Service will be held Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 1:00 pm at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Mount Vernon, Illinois with Father Joel Seipp officiating. The Mount Vernon American Legion Post #141 will conduct Full Military Honors at the cemetery. Interment will follow. Memorials may be made in Jerry’s honor to his grandson, Joseph’s, college fund.
Please remember to observe social distancing at this time. Following the CDC and NFDA regulations, we encourage everyone to wear a mask. They will be made available, upon request.
Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.