ALFORD

Gaylon Ralph Alford, 79, passed away Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014, at his home in Bush.

Gaylon was born in Kentwood on March 23, 1934, to Ralph and Margie Alford. He graduated from Spring Creek High School and Southeastern Louisiana University, where he was a member of the basketball team. He worked as a public health sanitarian in Washington and West Feliciana parishes.

He had a love for fishing and camping, and he loved all sports, especially basketball and tennis. He had a passion for coaching, and was instrumental in beginning a citywide youth athletic association in Bogalusa. He also loved singing in quartets and church choir.

He is survived by his wife, Peggy; his children, Anita Ann (Emory) Scarborough of Holt, Fla., David Ralph (Katherine) Alford of Denham Springs and Deborah Lynn (Roger) Villere of Bush; and his grandchildren, Caleb Hester, Dylan Flores, Savannah Alford, Victoria Villere and Shelby Villere.

Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 at Fitzgerald United Methodist Church, with a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, the food ministry of Fitzgerald United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice.

Bagnell & Sons Funeral Home in Covington is in charge of arrangements.