Joe Alford

Rufus E. “Joe” Alford passed away at his home surrounded by family on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at the age of 74.

Joe was born in Pascagoula, MS on January 26, 1952.  Joe married Tanya Witchen on November 23, 1979. Together they had one son, Ryan. Joe worked at MS Export Railroad as a locomotive engineer and train master from November of 1973 until his retirement in May of 2012. He enjoyed country living, cooking out, golfing and spending time with family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Rufus Alford Jr.; stepmother, Carolyn Alford; mother, Mittie Carter Alford; and a sister, Juanita Barnes.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Tanya Alford; a son Joseph Ryan Alford (Katrina); siblings, Crystal Alford Woodcock (Wesley) and  Alice Alford Russell (Lee); grandchildren, Claire Hartsfield-Alford, Raelynn Alford, Aubrie Alford, Willow Wilson, Kaitlyn Comeaux and Shade Wilson

Memorial Service will be held at O’Bryant-O’Keefe Funeral Home at 12 noon on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, a day he enjoyed pranking his family.  Visitation will be one hour prior to service. Private family inurnment will follow.

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