William F. Alford, 90, of Niles

Published 9:11 am Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Aug. 28, 1923 — Nov. 11, 2013

William F. Alford, 90 of Niles passed to his rest on Sunday, Nov. 11, 2013 at his home surrounded and being cared for by his family.

Alford

William was born in Gipson County, Tenn. on Aug. 28, 1923 to the late Charles and Martha “Mattie” (Bell) Alford.

On Oct. 11, 1941 William wed Betty Lou Shau and they enjoyed 68 wonderful years of marriage. William enlisted and served his country proudly in the United States Army. After Betty Lou’s passing William again found love and companionship in Florence Kuhl and they wed Nov. 21, 2010.

Anyone who knew William understood what a determined and driven man he was. He strove every day to be successful in any endeavor he put his mind to. He was instrumental in starting the National Association of Franchisees for Kentucky Fried Chicken, and then went on to serve for more than 50 years. Not only was he involved with a national organization, he believed strongly in community, serving as a former director of the First National Bank of Niles, he donated the land for the Riverfront Park, contributed to both the war memorial and also the new YMCA. He was a Lifetime Member of the American Legion Post No. 26, a former president of the Chamber of Commerce, was a Mason and was also involved with the Shriners. Even though his involvement was far reaching his passion was his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and a doting grandfather; nothing made William happier than being surrounded by family.

He was preceded by his parents, his wife, Betty Alford, his daughter, Martha Lou Rudoni, and his brother Cleo Alford.

He is survived by his second wife, Florence of Niles, his son William (Nancy) Alford of Niles, two step-sons, Greg (Jennifer) Stoops and Mark (Rebecca) Stoops both of Niles, eight grandchildren, 11 step-grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 11 step great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his caretakers, Diana Brooks and Jim Reed.

Services for William will be Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013 1 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. An interment will follow at Silverbrook Cemetery with military honors. Pastor Jim Wing will be officiating.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation may do so to the First Baptist Church, 1446 East Main Street, Niles, Mich. 49120.

Photos, condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com or www.Facebook.com/BrownFuneralHomeNiles.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles.