Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Taylor Funeral Home

1514 5th Ave.

Phenix City, Alabama

Richard Halford Obituary

Richard Joseph
Halford
September 14, 1964-
November 3, 2012
Atlanta, GA- Richard Joseph Halford, 48, affectionately known by his immediate family as "Joey" passed Saturday, November 3, 2012 in Atlanta, GA while engaged in his passion, serving the citizens of Atlanta, GA as a helicopter pilot.
Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. EST, today, Saturday, November 10, 2012 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 320 12th St., Columbus, GA with Father Thomas D. Weise, officiating. The repast will follow at Mother Mary Mission Catholic Church, 318 Seale Road, Phenix City, AL and interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park, 4400 St. Mary's Road, Columbus, GA according to Taylor Funeral Home, Inc.
Richard Joseph Halford was born September 14, 1964 to Mattie Frances Edmonds of Columbus, GA and Carl Earl Halford of Little Rock, AK. Upon completion of his elementary education in Chicago, IL, the family relocated to Columbus, GA where he attended Mother Mary Catholic School in Phenix City, AL. He later finished Hardaway High School in 1982. While at Hardaway, Richard enjoyed playing all areas of sports, where he excelled in football. Richard matriculated at Tuskegee Institute (Tuskegee,AL) where he majored in Business Administration.
In 1986, Richard came to Atlanta, GA to live with his uncle, Milton E. Dodson, Jr. and aunt, Geri Dodson, where he was introduced to the Atlanta Police Department. With the support of his uncle and the encouragement of family friends (Ret.) Major Herman Griner and (Ret.) Detective James Stewart, Richard completed the Police Academy in 1987.
Richard began his 26 year tenure at Zone 4 Precinct and later served in the DUI Task Force and Motorcycle Unit. He then joined the Aviation Unit in 1996, where he completed his service.
Richard was united in holy matrimony with Vivian Harris in February, 1989, and to this union one daughter was born, Gabrielle Bijon Halford. Richard was christened as an infant at St. Benedict the Moor Catholic Church by Father Ignatius Behr in Columbus, GA and served as an altar boy throughout his developmental years. During his most recent years, regardless of his work schedule, Richard could be found in uniform at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Marietta at early Mass on Sunday mornings.
Richard leaves to cherish his memory one beloved daughter, Gabrielle Bijon Halford, a sophmore at Fort Valley State College; his mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Carl E. Halford of Columbus, GA; one brother, Gerald Cornelius Halford (Rebecca) of Pine Mountain, GA; one sister, Michelle Frances Hall (Malcolm) of Fayetteville, GA; eight uncles, Walter Daniel Edmonds (Collette) Ellenwood, GA; Norman Robert Edmonds of Miami, FL; Charlie Frank Edmonds of Columbus, GA; Albert Joseph Edmonds (Jacque`) Burke of VA; James Otis Edmonds of Cape Coral, FL; William Theodore Edmonds (Treva) of Greenville, TN; Steve Wright, Sr. of Little Rock, AK and Archie Halford of Flint, MI; two aunts, Mary Helen Lowe of Long Beach, CA and Geraldine (Geri) Dodson of East Point, GA; special friends, Cris Brown, John Hughley, Victoria, Crystal and Eric Kim and a host of other relatives and friends.
Please visit www.thetaylorfuneralhome.com to sign the online guest registry.

Published by Columbus Ledger-Enquirer on Nov. 10, 2012.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Halford

Not sure what to say?





Thinking of you and praying for you Sis. Mattie and Bro. Carl!! We love you dearly at The Church of Columbus- so glad that we did get the opportunity to met your son. May the Lord continue to be your comfort!! Pastor and Sis. H.L. Sheppard

November 5, 2013

Dear Halford family,
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Richard. He was one of two brave and fine men serving Atlanta. I wished I had the honor of meeting Richard.

May God send you much needed comfort and peace especially through the holidays. His family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Sincerey, resident of Atlanta area

Cindy Acker

December 21, 2012

To Vivian and the Halford family,

Know that even in times like this our God is still in control. He won't leave you nor forsake you and whats to much for us to handle know that it's just right for God. Lean not to your own understandng but trust in God.

Detective Robbie Scandrick (APD)

November 19, 2012

And may the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts & your minds in Christ Jesus. Rich you were a great friend, kind mentor & superb golfer. We will always love you.

Shaleese & Ken

November 18, 2012

My prayers are with the Halford family. You love him but God loved him more. Rest in peace with Our Lord Richard.
Hardaway High School Class of 1983

Monica Alexander-Tripp

November 16, 2012

In the sun I see your smile...in the moon your cool nature...in the rain, the showers of laughter we shared over the years. The world was a better place with you in it....I miss you much!

Kim

November 15, 2012

What an absolutely AWESOME individual! We praise God that we have the special memories we do of Halford; we shall hold them close to our hearts forever. He was a brother to "Bump" and a friend to everyone. May the family find peace and comfort from the wonderful memories you have of your dear loved one. Rest well Halford. Rest well...

Sonya and Wes "Bump" Coggins

November 14, 2012

Richard was a person that anyone would want as a friend, because he was always there for you no matter what...I met Richard at Mother Mary Mission over 40 years ago,we also went to Hardaway High together so I always took for granted he would be there..How do you say goodbye to someone you love,I refuse to...I am going to say Rest On My Brother & Please Save A Seat For Me !!! I Love You Richard

O'Quita Samuel

November 14, 2012

I did not know Officer Halford but just listening to what others are saying about him, I was moved to leave my condolences. My thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. Take this time to reflect on how he lived.

Lisa Robbins

November 14, 2012

My prayers are with you and will remain with you in the days and throughout the years to come. I was blessed to know Richard from 4th thru 8th grade at Mother Mary Mission. I am very thankful to have known a very blessed and wonderful person at such a young age. I pray that you will continue to cherish memories of him, recall them often as they will bring smiles to you for comfort and thank God for allowing such a wonderful soul to be with us here on earth. Wanda Gordon, Mother Mary Mission Class of 1978.

Wanda Gordon

November 13, 2012

You will always live in our hearts and prayers.

Keyshawn D. & Rosland F. Sneed

November 13, 2012

I only knew you for a short time, but it was long enough to know that you are one that will be greatly missed!! God Bless

Susan Brown

November 13, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss...may God bless and comfort you every minute of every day. GOD is good.

Evelyn Hooks

November 12, 2012

.....only great memories that I will cherish forever....rest well

monica mccarter

November 12, 2012

To the Halford family. Our condolences and may God bring every comfort to you as he guides you as the years come and go. Your family are not along for we know our part is to also comfort and extend help and prayers for as long as you need them. Reach out for help and seek the needs to carry you forward. God bless.

Robert Henry

November 11, 2012

Darrell & Chastist Middlebrooks

November 11, 2012

Rest In Peace my fellow brother in Law Enforcement.

Darrell Middlebrooks

November 10, 2012

Mattie & Carl & Family: My prayers and thoughts are with you. May God continue to strengthen you as you know he will. Shirley Covington & Family

Shirley Covington

November 10, 2012

God looked down , from on high, and said " I know what I will do, I will send down ANGELS, to watch my people, I'll dress them in RED and BLUE !!"
For you Sr. Ofc. Richard Halford one of those ANGELS, dressed in BLUE
We can NEVER pay a police officer thier TRUE worth!

Nia

November 10, 2012

Sis. Mattie & Bro. Carl and Halford family, Words cannot express the sorrow that we felt when our worse fears were confirmed, it was indeed your Joey in that helicopter. We have been praying for you daily. May Jesus give you strength to go through this difficult trial. We admire your son..We love you at The Church of Columbus and will continue to lift you up in prayer- we are only a phone call away. WE LOVE YOU!!

Pastor & Sis. HL Sheppard

November 10, 2012

Rest in peace...

Margaret

November 10, 2012

Richard,

May you rest in peace for your amazing service to the citizens of Atlanta for 26 dedicated years!!!

God Bless,

Sherrell Dowdell-Mahone
Kendrick High School Class of 83

Sherrell Dowdell-Mahone

November 10, 2012

I was the Halford's next door neighbor while Joey was away at college. When he would come home for a few days we would go fishing together. I hadn't thought about Joey for years and now I'll miss him forever.

David Chestnut

November 10, 2012

To the Halford family, may God bless and strengthen you during this difficult time. Mr. Carl Halford you and your family are in our thought here at "Dolly Madison Bakery".

trucks drivers at Dolly Madison

November 10, 2012

THANK YOU FOR CARING ABOUT US. A JOB WELL DONE, YOU WILL BE MISSED DEARLY BY US ALL.

ANGELA

November 10, 2012

My most heartfelt sympathies and prayers to the family and co-workers of Officer Richard Halford "Rich". As a former police officer I know the unfortunate pain of losing a comrade, friend and partner. I also want to thank WSBTV for streaming  a very touching tribute in honor of his service and dedication.  You will truly be missed.

Frankie Stanford

November 9, 2012

To Gabriel and Family, my sincere sympathy goes out to you at this time of sorrow.May fond memories of your father give you strength .-
Ruby Duffie

November 9, 2012

My Sincere condolences to the Halford Family. To be absent from the body is to be present with GOD. AMEN.

Laverne Campbell

November 9, 2012

My sincere condolences to the Halford family. My thoughts and prayers to all who knew during this difficult time. Richard was like a brother to me growing up. He will be missed.

Russell Harris

November 9, 2012

My heart goes out to Officer Halford's family and I appreciate all that he did to protect our city. He is there with the angels now. Blessings, Jenny Vaughn, Hampton, GA

November 9, 2012

My brother of many years, I will forever miss you. It is hard to think of this life without you, I continue to pray for your love ones and trust in the lord. I draw my strength from the Lord at this time of grief. I will miss you my brother, love you! Gilly!

Robert Gilmore

November 9, 2012

To the Halford family. Just what you to know that he was an amazing person and will be miss. God will be with you to help with your painful loss.
God Bless you.

The Burks Family

November 9, 2012

Deepest Sympathy to you and your family.
The Wilson Family

November 9, 2012

Thank you for your service to the city & your community. God bless you and your family.

Brad Fleming

November 9, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Theresa Wright

November 9, 2012

May GOD Bless the family. My Prayers and thoughts are with you.This is your cousin from Columbus.

denise gay

November 9, 2012

Never knew you feel like i have known you for years i just want to say thanks for a job well done may god continue to bless your family and vivian and gabby keep your head up high and stay strong you will continue to be in my prayers thanks again adrienne

adrienne carmichael

November 9, 2012

My Hearts goes out to the Halford's Family. Richard you, will be truly missed. You talk me a lot and I will for ever cherish the memories. You have been like a brother to me that I never had. May your soul R.I.P.

Melissa Smarr

November 9, 2012

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Douglas & Juanita Hathaway

November 9, 2012

I will never forget you, my friend. Your spirit and enthusiasm were infectious and your smile...oh what a smile. You always brought a smile to my face and you always touched my heart. I know you're flying high in Heaven, as God did indeed give you Wings, not only here on this Earth but the second you soared into Heaven. You will be missed, as you were loved by soooo many who knew you. Rest In Peace, my friend. Until we meet again...

Kathy Greer

November 9, 2012

May God bless you with the peace that surpasses all understanding

Atlanta

November 9, 2012

My prayers are with all of Richard's family and friends!!! He will always be remembered and cherished as a close friend.
Tesa

Tesa Wallace

November 9, 2012

My heart goes out to the Halford's and the entire APD family my thoughts and prayers are with you.. May your soul rest in paradise..

jackie edwards

November 9, 2012

Please know that our prayers are with the Halford family at this time of saddness and we will continue to ask God to give you strength throughout the days to come.

The Richardson Family (Marie, Tam, Everett, Tyrone & Janice)

November 9, 2012

To Vivian and Family,
May God Bless you and keep you. We have you in our minds, hearts, and prayers.

Robin, Rodney, & Twins- Danielle & Dionne Black

November 9, 2012

My sincere condolences.

B Anderson

November 9, 2012

WHEN YOU THINK OF ME NOW,DON'T CONSIDER ME GONE.JUST KNOW IN YOUR HEART THAT I HAVE MOVED ON.

CLIMMIE SEALEY

November 9, 2012

Joe Friday, I will forever cherish the good times we shared, and your memory. You were truly one of the GREAT ones, and a true FRIEND. May God bless you, and your family. I will truly miss you, and may you R.I.P. my good brother. I love you forever!!!!!!

Jay Brooks

November 9, 2012

Richard,
I will miss your Wisdom,your Knowledge, and your smile. We spent many nights together at Chilis. I loved to make you laugh. Forever a friend, Anthony Jackson (A.J.)

Anthony Jackson

November 9, 2012

To the family,
I met Richard at our Tuskegee Football Homecoming Reunion last year. Real nice guy and a fellow Golden Tiger. We were all shocked when the news came through about Richard. We will pray for you and your family, and send our blessing to your family. We will miss him dearly, and will always remember him as a great person, policeman, and family man. As one of our football songs say, "STANDING TALL AND LOOKING GOOD"...WE know Richard is doing just that!! WE ARE PROUD OF HIM, AND WE KNOW YOU ARE TOO. MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU. WE IN THE TUSKEGEE FAMILY HAVE LOST A TRUE SOLDIER...GOD BLESS

BILLY PEARSON

November 8, 2012

I was so deeply saddened to hear about the tragic accident and loss of a great man. MY sincere condolences go out to the family, friends and colleagues of Richard. He will always be remembered for his wonderful smile and gentle heart...rest in peace my friend....

Carla Maxwell

November 8, 2012

Rest in Peace Officer Halford... You have truly served the people by protecting us from above .... Now you are truly above as one of Gods angels. You are a friend that will be missed but not forgotten.....

Star W.

November 8, 2012

Rest in Peace Officer Halford....you will be missed by many.

Star

November 8, 2012

My heart goes out to the family, friends and co-worker of the officer.Earth has no sorrows that heaven cannot heal.You all are forever in prayer.

Monquetta Jeffery

November 8, 2012

My condolences to the Halford family. May God continue to be with you and watch over you.

Debra

November 8, 2012

GOD BLESS AND KEEP THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF OFFICER HALFORD, MAY YOUR DAYS BE BLESSED AND YOUR TEARS BE FEW BECAUSE HE IS NOW AND ANGEL OF GOD FLYING THAT HELICOPTER FOR OUR LORD AND SAVIOR. PRAY AND KEEP HIM CLOSE TO YOUR HEARTS. NO ONE CAN UNDERSTAND THE SUDDDEN DEPARTURE OF A MAN THAT WAS FATHER,HUSBAND, SON, BROTHER AND ETC.BUT JUST REMEMBER HE'S GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. PRAYING FOR YOU EACH AND EVERYDAY. BE BLESSED

PHYLLIS WATKINS

November 8, 2012

MYTHE LORD BLESS YOU IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW I WILL KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS

November 8, 2012

My God bless and comfort the family of Richard Halford. You are in my prayers.

Glenn Martin

November 8, 2012

Family God bless you and keep the faith.

Clarice M. Brooks

November 8, 2012

I was shocked and sadden to hear the news about my friend and fellow classmate Richard(Hardaway High School 1982,Columbus, GA). Richard was smart,kind,and always had a big smile. Richard your work is done rest in peace my friend. May God be with the Halford family during this time of great sorrow.

Anthia Ezekiel-Still

November 8, 2012

Our prayers and deepest sympathy go out to every member of Officer Halford's family. May God comfort your hearts during this time of sorrow. Please know that as Atlantans, we are honored to have been protected by Officers Halford and Smiley, and we shall keep them in our hearts, always.

Anne E. Phillips, Chairperson, the Executive Board and the Membership of NPU-Z, Atlanta.

Anne E. Phillips

November 8, 2012

My prayers are with the family of Richard J. Halford.

Charlotte Moore-Butler

November 8, 2012

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

EG

November 8, 2012

E Robinson

November 8, 2012

God bless our fallen brothers, and their families.

IRA lovett

November 8, 2012

You are now with the angels!
Rest in Peace

The McNair Family

November 8, 2012

Words cannot convey our feelings at this time. We will always remember Richard in our hearts. May God comfort you in your time of sorrow. He will be missed.
The Veazey Family,

Valerie Veazey

November 8, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. In our hearts, Richard was a hero. May God continue to comfort you at this time.
We love you.

Earnestine Young

November 8, 2012

The Lord is hear for the brokenhearted. Just beleive that God is truning around for you. Mercy, Grace, Love, Favor, and Peace abounds......

Ada Caston

November 8, 2012

With deepest Sympathy to the Halford Family durning your time of sorrow...Proverbs 3:5...God is for us a refuge and strength, A help that is readily to be found durning difficult times...May God provide you peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.
Love,
The Evans Family

November 8, 2012

Richard, God is now saying, well done my good and faithful servant ... well done.
To Vivian and Gabrielle Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.

Janice Brown Swilley

November 8, 2012

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Monique Kearse

November 8, 2012

I pray God's comfort and strength for the Halford family. Trust God's timing and allow Him to get you through the difficult moments. Hold on to your memories of Joey; they will make your hearts smile.

Joyce Taylor-Davis

November 8, 2012

Grace to you,

I worked with Richard some years ago as a member of the DUI team. I lost touch with Richard and Vivian over the years. He was a vibrant person, and a good officer. Rest in Peace my Friend.

Selin Rives

November 8, 2012

Thank You.

November 8, 2012

To God Be The Glory.

Clarice Brooks

November 8, 2012

I will remember Richard as a very carefree, loving, kind man that was very dedicated to his family and job. I will continue to pray for his family that GOD will comfort and bring them peace. Rest in Peace...Mackie

Erika Robinson

November 8, 2012

A special person always leave a footprint in your heart and no one can ever take those special memories you have.With all my sympathy.

Delories Powell

November 8, 2012

My prayers and thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. Nothing but LOVE for you Richard... "Rest in Peace".
KD

November 8, 2012

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Anita Stephens Floyd

November 8, 2012

To the family, God is to wise to make a mistake. Joey will truly be missed. We loved him, but God loved him best. God will give us the strength that we need to go on.

Betty Carter-Alexander-Bradley

November 8, 2012

Our thoughts,prayers and love goes out to the Halford Family and friends as well as the fellow officers at the APD.
Carrie and Bernard Jarrett, Milledgevile,
GA

November 7, 2012

I was very sad to hear of the passing of Richard. I recently attended the Hardaway High School Class of 1982 Reunion and spoke to him. He told of his career as pilot with the Atlanta Police Department. I was proud of his success and it made me feel that teaching was a worthwhile career. Rest in peace, Richard.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time of grief. May the memories of Richard bring comfort in the days to come.

Lamuriel Peagler-Adams, Former Teacher Hardaway High School-Columbus, GA

November 7, 2012

To The Halford Family & Friends

May God's grace and mercy strengthen you all.

SHONDA DICKERSON

November 7, 2012

To the family and friends of Officer Halford, I sis not know this officer but my prayers are with you.

Joycelyn Childs

November 7, 2012

I am so sorry to hear about Officer Halford. His family is in my prayers.

Cathy Patterson

November 7, 2012

May God encourage your hearts during this time of sorrow. Richard was a good man.

Lester Cumberbatch

November 7, 2012

My prayers are with the Halford Family, Rich was a great man, he always had a BIG SMILE when I visited him on my trips to Atlanta. RIP Big Rich

Charles Whitfield

November 7, 2012

May God comfort and keep the family in His loving arms. Richard is with Jesus and you will see him again in heaven.
God Bless you during these days of deep sorrow. Our prayers are ongoing.

B. Kennedy

November 7, 2012

May God grant you strength during the time of your love one, and give you peace to face tomorrow. Jesus is your hope in your weakness... letting go and letting God carry you through.. he said cast all your care upon him for he careth for you... he is the only one that will sustain in these times... hope in him.. the joy of the Lord is your strength....

Adrian Tomllin

November 7, 2012

To the Halford family, you are in my prayers stay strong and keep the faith and the Lord will see you through as each day passes. With Love from your co-worker. Central Records Unit

Martha Boazman

November 7, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

EG

November 7, 2012

Our prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. May God be with you in the coming days.

K Stewart

November 7, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

P Sharpe ( Isaiah 12:2 )

November 7, 2012

God bless the Halford family in this time of loss. "Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you" (Psalm 9:10, NIV) R.I.P. "Rich"

Anthony Graham

November 7, 2012

I'm so sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort help you through this difficult time.

November 7, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with the Halford Family. Sandra Croney Mitchell

November 7, 2012

to the Halford family;
May the rich and heroic memories of your loved one strengthen you. May you feel the presence of God's peace and power.

Nancy Sims

November 7, 2012

My heart and prayers go out to this Officer's family. I was employed as Atlanta Police Officer from Sept. 1970-Nov. 1974. From Nov. 1973 thru Nov. 1974, I was assigned along with 3 other Afro-American Officers, to the APD Helicopter Unit as observers. Knowing the dangers of any mission that I flew, I was proud to help protect, and serve the citizens of Atlanta as I'm sure Officer Halford did so many times.

Julius Bryant Jr

November 7, 2012

You have our prayers.

Melinda Sellers Morehead

November 7, 2012

Showing 1 - 100 of 101 results

Make a Donation
in Richard Halford's name

Memorial Events
for Richard Halford

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Taylor Funeral Home

1514 5th Ave. P.O. Box 2333, Phenix City, AL 36868

How to support Richard's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Halford's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more