John Hal Alford

Services were 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 28, at Buffalo United Methodist Church. Arrangements were under the direction of Montgomery-Viets Funeral Home of Buffalo. Memorials may be made to the John Alford Central High Math Scholarship. Visitation was 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, March 27, at the funeral home. Click image to enlarge John Hal Alford was born April 15, 1932, in Dallas County, the youngest son of J. Homer and Grace (Marsh) Alford. He died March 24, 2010, at St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, after a recent surgery and a long battle with several chronic health issues. He graduated from Buffalo High School in 1950, and from Southwest Missouri State Teacher’s College in 1954. He received his master’s degree from the University of Missouri in 1963. He was united in marriage with Jo Ann Neill on Nov. 26, 1953, and to this enduring union two daughters were born. He was a devoted, loving husband, father and grandfather. He took great pleasure in supporting his family in whatever activities they pursued. He always put their needs and wishes ahead of his own. They never doubted his love for them. Even as his health declined, he was overjoyed and uplifted by the arrival of his wonderful granddaughter. He was a teacher not only by profession, but also in his heart. He taught high school for 47 years, with 10 of them at Buffalo High and 37 at Central High in Springfield. He served two terms as president of the Springfield Education Association. His dedication to Central High was well-known. He was one of the School’s greatest proponents. On many occasions he helped lead the movement to maintain Central’s identity and mission. Survivors include his loving wife of 56 years, Jo Ann; two daughters: Jan Alford, Buffalo, and Dr. Julie Alford, Springfield; his precious granddaughter, Jamie Lynn Alford, Springfield; his brother, Rex Alford, Houston, Texas; his sister, Irene Greene, Largo, Fla.; his sister-in-law, Janice and husband, Sam Alexander, Blue Springs; his brother-in-law, Jerry and wife, Carol Neill, Lake Quivera, Kan.; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other family and friends who will truly miss him.

John Hal Alford

April 15, 1932 - March 24, 2010