Jess Burks Alford Jr.

Jess Burks Alford Jr. Passed peacefully in the night of November 9, 2023 at the age of 90. Just a month before, he was savoring life in the East Mountains of Tijeras, NM, indulging in activities like hiking, bird watching and relishing lunches at his beloved Roots Farm Cafe where he was known and loved. There, he was a cherished figure and always welcomed there with a "Hi Jess!...the usual?" Jess, originally from Paris, Texas grew up alongside his sister, mother and father who raised Angus cattle on a ranch near by. He often spoke of his childhood dreams of being a pilot and a photographer, aspirations he not only fulfilled but surpassed. In 1954, Jess graduated from the University of Texas with a BA and went on to serve in the Air Force from 1955 to 1958, piloting various aircraft including B-25's. During his time in the Air Force, he also served as an instructor, sharing his expertise with fellow pilots. After a decade in real estate, Jess discovered his love of photography eventually making a significant impact in the commercial and food photography realms. His accomplishment include receiving an international advertising Clio award in 1985 for his photo of an egg yolk falling from a cracked shell into a skillet heating on a stove's burner. "I went through 13 dozen eggs on that one," he says. Jess dedicated his lens to environmental and nature photography, collaborating with the Texas Committee on Natural Resources. His work contributed to the publication of "A Guide to the Wilderness Areas of East Texas" by the University of Texas in 1986. Subsequently, he continued his career as an environmental photographer, collaborating with Getty Images and various environmental groups. Jess devoted nearly a decade of his life to conservation, actively participating and serving on the board of Wild Earth Guardians, a Santa Fe-based environmental advocacy organization. Through his lens, he not only celebrated the vibrant array of birds and wildlife thriving in New Mexico's natural habitat but also documented the triumphs achieved by the Guardians, such as the restoration of overgrazed rivers to their pristine, natural state. A man of deep knowledge and convictions, Jess embraced natural healing principles. Faced with a diagnosis of melanoma cancer in his late 70s, he opted for an alternative path. Choosing to forego conventional treatments like chemotherapy and surgery, Jess successfully cured himself by adopting a macrobiotic diet and practicing mindfulness. Jess was inspirational to so many through his irreverence and grit, balanced with creative gift giving, personal authenticity and a big heart. Survived by his son Jess Burks Alford III and daughter Ella Ann Alford of Dallas, TX. He is also remembered by his grandson Jess Burks Alford IV and great granddaughter Adalyn Grace Alford residing in Corpus Christi. Additionally, he is survived by nephews Matt Watson and William Watson, and niece Larkin Watson Foreman. Jess Alford Jr.'s legacy lives on through his family, friends, and the indelible mark he left on the world of photography and environmental advocacy. Graveside service was held in Henderson, TX, Nov 29, 2023 with Rev. Mike Mayhugh officiating. Interment was under the direction of Crawford - A. Crim Funeral Home of Henderson. Condolences may be made at www.crawfordacrim.com.