Olivia-Alford-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Smith & Gaston Funeral Services, Inc. - Birmingham

Olivia Alford

Jun 2, 1938 - Jan 13, 2025

Guest Book

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I cannot find the proper words to deeply express my sorrow and grief that I felt when hearing the heartbreaking news of Olivia's passing. My sincere condolences to the Family and love ones. May we find peace in knowing she was a real trooper, in every since of the word, may the blessings of the Good Lord continue to rain down on us.

We can truly and honestly say that Olivia was a much loved and very special cousin to all of us. We especially remember the very close friendship and loving bond that she shared with our mother Ann. As a result of that, we developed a special love and closeness with her children, our cousins, June, Connie and Freddy that spanned our early years on throughout high school. We especially looked forward to and enjoyed visiting with them. Your great loss is our great loss. As your hearts weigh...

Rest in peace great aunt Olivia, you are loved and will be missed.

Olivia, known to my mother and me as "Libby" was the best cousin a person could have. She cared so much about my mother and always showed concern and love for my daughter and me. I recall the times of sharing, the times of prayer and laughter and gifts. I especially recall when we traveled to Bermuda and it was the greatest vacation and fun. We laughed because I couldn't keep up with her appetite . Each time, we ended a phone call, she'd say, "I love you girl." I'm at peace knowing she...

Ms. Alford will truly be missed by my girls and I. Ms. Alford was one of a kind. Such a loving and caring person. I thank God for placing her with my family for more than 60 years ago. My girls and I are so thankful that we were able to spend time and assist her doing the time her health was failing her. In spite of it all she had the mind to want to dress up and always talked about the Lord. That big smile never changed.
We love you!
Gail, Anffine’e,and Anethea Tolliver.

Your kindness will never be forgotten. You taught me in my early years how to appreciate pearls of life. I love you and you are truly missed. Your cousin Gladys Alford Johnson Augusta,Georgia

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

My sincere condolences to the Alford family. Mrs. Olivia is a fine, sweet and loving person. Have known her over 40 plus years. She will truly be missed.

Obituary

Olivia's Obituary

Olivia Alford was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Lamon and Margaret Alford on June 2, 1938. At the age of 9, Olivia relocated to Birmingham, Alabama where she developed into adulthood under the guidance and love of her mother and bonus father the late S.T. Stodghill. She accepted Christ into her heart at an early age. For the past 50 years until her health failed she was devoted member and loyal servant at New Pilgrim Baptist Church.

Olivia attended Hooper City High School in Birmingham, Alabama. She continued her studies and completed coursework at Parker High School in Accounting, Algebra and Basic Business Procedures. She completed LUTC (Life Underwriters Training Course) and attained State OfAlabama Insurance Licensure.

In June 1964, Olivia began employment with Booker T. Washington Insurance Co. as a debit manager and ultimately becoming a sales representative for Zion Memorial Garden as well. During her many years with the company, Olivia was a hard worker and relentless employeecommitted to excellence in her duties. Often yielding award winning performances in sales and collections. Olivia Alford was a committed follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. She was a willing servant and eager to help anyone and anywhere she could. She was a founding member of the New Pilgrim Greeters and served faithfully until her health declined. Olivia was active with the Benevolent Committee, the Centennial Committee, the Christian Aid Society and the Bread of Life Ministry (NPBC) and served as Project Coordinator for Needy Families of North Birmingham District via Booker T. Washington Insurance Co.

Olivia’s caring and nurturing spirit was most evident in her love for her children. June, Connie and “Freddy” were her joy; and she thrived on her love for them. Caring, nurturing and challenging them to work hard, and to always be and do their best. She was a living beacon of the power of prayer and committed life of faith.

On January 13, 2025, she surely received her, “Well done my good and faithful servant”, from the Lord and departed this earthly journey for everlasting life and eternal peace in Heaven. Her exemplary life and memories will be treasured by her son, Lewis F. Chisholm (Karen) of Murfreesboro, TN,; daughters, June C. Morris (Wardell), Connie C. Hatcher (Ronald Sr.) of Birmingham, AL ; grandchildren, Ronald C. Hatcher Jr, Nicolas K. Gadson of Birmingham, AL, Olivia L. Gadson of Los Angeles, CA , Donnica N. Chisholm of Birmingham, AL, Ashley G. Andrews (Daniel) of Clifton, VA and Jack R. Hatcher (Laura) of Mt. Juliet, TN ; brothers Walter Stodghill, Terry Stodghill (Rosa) of Birmingham, AL ; sisters Mavis Saunders of Newark, NJ, Gloria Stodghill, Connie Watson of Birmingham, AL and Joyce Hargrove (Terry) of Montgomery, AL; 18 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces, great nephews and friends

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