Kimberly Arlene Alford

Mrs Alford, you are one person that has left a lasting impact in my life. You are truly missed may you and my mother continue to rest in peace.

Remembering you my dear friend...your laughter, kindness, and unwavering spirit will forever echo in my heart!

Kim,
It´s been 17 years and I still miss you dearly. There are days I long to hear your voice and that `one of a kind´ laugh. No one can fill your shoes, my sweet friend. You will always be in my heart.

Kim,
I continue to cherish the memories we shared. You would be so proud of Alister, AJ, Sydney and Aden (Sean and I are doing great things also). You taught me well. Your legacy lives on daily. We miss you and love you daily my Sister,
Kim Judge

My dearest Kim.....I know you are resting in a better place, but you are still missed and loved here! This time of year is always still difficult because it's the time that you transitioned.....


With Love Alister

Always think of you this time of year. You left such a positive imprint on my life.

My Dear Kimberly! Life goes on as we get older. Keeson is 17 and has been driving for a year. He´s a junior in high school and is doing extraordinarily well in football. I miss our weekend talks and that voice of yours. I love you, girl and look forward to seeing you again.

My sweet friend, sister, and mentor. I think of you often and cherish the time our families had together, becoming family. You would be so proud of Alister and AJ. I know you are watching over them and each of us. You truly left a legacy my friend. Missing you dearly, Kim Judge

Thinking of you today Mrs Alford when using a "five dollar word" that you taught me all those years ago. Your impression on your students will last a lifetime. Every time I drive past OPHS, I imagine that you are still there walking proud and shaping young people.

Kim,
This time of the year I´m reminded of our last conversation. Sitting in that hospital room, we talked about EVERYTHING and you asked me to sing to you. It was a special moment that I still cling to in my heart. I miss you my friend...our talks, your voice, your laugh and beautiful smile. But knowing that one day I´ll see you again in our `perfect new home´ gives me comfort and joy.
Love and still miss you much!

I still miss you.

To My beloved and adored wife. As life passes on with a new wife and a new daughter(that's 9 years old now), I just want you to know that you are always in our hearts and minds and even our conversations still(some 14 years later)babe. AJ has grown into the family business (like you predicted ) and doing very well for himself...although I have to still push him to finish his college degree(like you would expect/demand of him)....
Well rest easy my love and until we see each other again..LOVE YA KIM!

Thinking of you today, Mrs. Kim. I miss and love you. I know you are watching over us.

As Christmas approaches, my memories of Kim Alford return. While at Fort Waton, she taught my two nephews who loved her. I then got to know her at OPHS as a teacher and administrator and friend. No one was better. May her family know that she remains in my heart.

Continue to soar beautiful butterfly and we will remember you in the blossoms of life that surround us. May Aj and your husband always know how much you loved and adored them.

I miss you mom, life is hard.. I wish I knew the right things to say, but I will say I just wish things were different. I love you

Mrs. Kim was my English teacher during my freshman year in high school. I am 35 now, and I still remember her morning classes fresh in my mind. She had such an energy and a compassionate way about her. I spent 16 years in school, and she is one of the only teachers I still remember vividly to this day. I'm sure many of the people who were closest to her know exactly what I mean. Mrs. Kim was truly a light who touched my life in what otherwise may have been a darker time. She was such a pure soul and an amazingly patient, kind and compassionate teacher. Her memory lives on!

Thoughts of you today my friend. Miss your beautiful smile and laughter.

We still love and miss you Kim. You will always have great memories and life that we built together, I often go by your grave to update your flowers. Rest in Peace my Love....

Not a day goes by that I don't think of and miss my dear friend. Only 2 short years after we got transferred back to VA, you got your winga. I am eternally thankful for our friendship/sisterhood. Love you my Friend!

I was so saddened to learn of Mrs. Alford's passing. My heart is broken. She was a favorite at FWBHS and I was so lucky to have her. I learned of her passing in the Fallen Vikings of FWBHS Facebook page. From all the posts, you can tell she was loved by many. I have thought of her often throughout the years and wondered about her. Many of my great memories of FWBHS are in her 10th grade Honors English class in 94-95. She had such great stories about her wonderful husband and I wish I could have heard her talk about AJ. I can only imagine she would have rocked at being a mom. She was just simply amazing. Alister & AJ, I'm so, so sorry for your loss. For the world's loss. Even though it's been 10 yeas, she still lives on in all of us.

I just found out today that Ms. Alford passed away and am completely heartbroken. Having worked closely with her on the FWBHS yearbook for four years, I spent more time with her than any other teacher, and she was truly an amazing person. She was so energetic, smart, and passionate, and changed so many kids' lives. I lost touch with her after she moved away from FWB but had always hoped I would find her online so we could reconnect and I could tell her what an inspiration she was for me. I feel blessed to have had her in my life, this wonderful person who spread so much joy and light into the world.

Thinking about my sweet friend today. Miss you so very much - our Friday afternoon conversations, your laugh and that smile. Forever in my heart.

Thank you for keeping this open.
I think of Kim and know she is taking care of all from Heaven.
That said.....I miss her laugh and not being able to call her at OPHS.
She loved that white car you found for her!
Alister and AJ I continue to lift you both up in prayer years later.
Kim's positive impact will never be forgotten. Her example was one of grace and nurturing guidance.

Thinking about you today and missing our Friday conversations. It's high school football season and I remember how much you loved working the games at OPH. Your light is still living on in many......

Melissa

Thank you for the wonderful impact you have had on my son. He is married now with a daughter named Sophia. You live on through all of the children you have blessed over the years.

I was thinking about you all this month because of the day of your birth. Happy birthday, Kimberly! I know you must be teaching and taking over in heaven. I can think of you without getting misty-eyed, but I still miss you. I wanted to just touch base and let you know I appreciate you looking out for me and I hope to join you one day. I love you and miss you.
Your friend,
Brenda

Thoughts of my dear friend today. Although we are not celebrating your birthday today here on earth, I take comfort in knowing that you are in heaven celebrating with Jesus. What a 'party' that must be.....

Missing you,

Thoughts of you today....very much missed but never forgotten!!!!

I was just thinking about her last week. It is still something to think about how enjoyable of a person she was. She never seemed to have a bad day, was extremely positive, and would bend over backwards for anyone. She had a loving godly heart and a passion for her profession of inspiring children. If it was not for her efforts, I would not have been able to go to Orange Park High because of my location. God said we are created to do great works, and Mrs. Alford certainly has done great works and impacted lives with her faithfulness.

I had the pleasure of having Mrs. Barnwell teach me at Bowman High School. After graduating and going to college, we still kept in touch. I remember her joy in getting married and how we would tease her about how she would say the name "Alister". I have thought if her often over the years and wanted her lovedones to know that she is not forforgotten.

In your loving memory Ms Alford, you are greatly missed but not forgotten.

Missing you more each day!

Memories of my dear friend today....5 years ago on this day she entered eternal rest. I miss her smile and laughter.

It's December 24, 2012 and I find myself thinking about you. It's been five years and I still miss your laugh, conversation and friendship. I wanted to call Alister today, but I didn't know what I wanted to say. I guess I really just wanted to speak with someone and connect with you. It's still hard.you touched a lot of lives and you I'd some remarkable things, but I wish you were still doing them. I still talk about you and your amazing FCAT scores and all your other accomplishments. I love you, girl! Merry Christmas.

OMG, I thought about you today and decided to look you up so I could talk to you. Imagine my surprise to read you are no longer with us. I'm at a loss for words sitting at my desk fighting back tears. I can still hear you calling Tre' "little Raven". I remember the good times we had in the garage in FWB. My girls loving to go over to Uncle Al's and Aunt Kim's. WOW, I'm in such shock. I don't even have the words to tell Dundee and the girls. I feel so bad that we loss contact but I know you are in a better place. Al, know you and AJ are in Dundee and My prayers and you will always be a part of our family.

Kim,
I had thoughts about you today and found myself here. It's been almost 5 years and I still think about you so very often. How I miss our Friday afternoon talks - you filling me in on the weekly happenings at OPHS and that "crazy" laugh of yours. I have this picture of you and Al that I look at just about everyday - strange, no not really because you and I shared alot of experiences - growing up in Orangeburg, going to college and pledging together. You were a "true" friend and there will never be another like you. I am keeping my promise that I made to you that night on Dec. 24, 2007. I love AJ, he is the son I never had. OMG! You would be soooooo proud him. He is growing into a remarkable young man! It was rough for he and Al for awhile after you passed but by God's grace they are doing fine. I can't believe AJ is going to the 9th grade - everytime I look at him I think of you and know that he was your pride and joy. You will never be forgotten and always remembered as a GREAT and AWESOME educator, wife, mother, and friend.

Mrs. Alford was my yearbook advisor at FWBHS c/o 1997. She was such a wonderful person, teacher, and confidant. She taught me so many life lessons. I was just thinking of her the other day when I was painting my nails...she always hated it when I wore dark nail polish! I've missed her since I graduated high school and have used all the advice she offered. I'm sorry for your loss. She was one of a kind.

I still her the clicking of your shoes down the hall and the "where are you going?" voice that was loved and feared at op. I will always miss you but I give thanks for having known you.

Mom, i love you and would give up anything to see you one more time. In a couple hours it will be your anniversery of your death 12/25/07. everyone that knows you misses you and i was talking to Mrs. Melissa earlier and we were talking about your passing so we all really miss you much your son A.J. Alford

It's been almost four years and I still miss you terribly. I miss our two hour conversations as you ironed clothes on Saturday. I miss the stories of your OPHS family. I miss you! I miss bouncing ideas off of you. I never will forget when you told me that Alister found out about your credit card debt prior to marriage and had you cut up your credit cards. You had a 5 year, 10 year and 20 year plan. You were such a perfectionist. You probably were the best friend I'd ever had. I remember when I visited you for the last time, you told me that you were not going back to OPHS and that you probably were not going to be around long and you had told Aister to remarry because he needed a ife and AJ needed a mom. Alister and AJ seem happy and i know you're watching over them, so I'm happy for them too. I miss you so much, but I'm happy that God let our paths cross and that he also allowed us to remain friends even after you moved. I love you, Kim and I know you're in heaven teaching and influencing students. I MISS YOU.

Aj and I still love you Kim and we always will. We miss you dearly honey and we keep you in our memories. The world and our family has lost a great woman,wife,mom, and friend. I opened this page permanately so that all of your friends and family can posts anytime they/we feel inclined to.

I have had you on my mind and when I got the notice someone else had signed this, I had to write again. You have been missed at OPHS more than I can say. When I get down or frustrated I think of you and what you would have done, and that helps me get through. May your husband and son know that I keep them close in prayer, especially as we near December 25. May God bless all of us who still miss you.

Kim was more than my cousin she was my sister. She was an inspiration for me to get my life together. I love her with all my heart. Big sis I know you are watching over me.
Love Always, Alton

I don't know what made me think of her, but I had a fond memory come to mind and decided to Google Mrs. Alford while at work today. The first thing that popped up was news of her passing. I burst in tears (and I am NOT a cryer) and had to excuse myself from the office. I had the unique blessing of knowing Mrs. Alford as a student and a mentor in her two years as Yearbook Advisor at OPHS. She wrote the recommendation letter that got my into college. The 10 pages of this book are a testiment that something about this woman stuck with you. She brought out the best in everyone and expected no less. AJ was two when I met him in Mr. Alford's arms. I will have that sweet memory of the three of them together forever and pray for the same for AJ and Al.

Everyone has that one teacher that had an impact on their life and Ms. Alford was mine. I don't know if I would have made it through my senior year without her.
I'll always remember her telling Nathaniel that he was only messing with me because he liked me. Well she was right, we've been together for 13 years now and without her we would have never met.
I wish I told her "thank you" when I had the chance.
Ms. Alford, you will be missed.
FWBHS c/o 95

Mrs. Alford you will be missed. I wish you would have had a chance to see my little girl.

I Will All Way Do My Best In school Like You All Ways Tell Me When I Come To You I Will Keep My Head Up And Finish School To Make You Proud.
I Miss You Very Much:)

You will truly be missed. Orange Park isn't the same without you. You were what kept most of us on the right track and I thank you for your unselfishness.

Mrs. Alford, I am now in my Senior Year of High School, and I never thought that you, out of all the other administrators wouldn't be here. I know it's not your fault and if you were still here you would still be right in those loud hallways of Orange Park High School. I want to thank you for being the positive influence to the students, and for always staying on us. Now I know the reason you kept "Nagging" us day in and day out was because you saw potential in each and everyone of us. Everyday when I go to that school I act as if you are right around the corner. A lot has changed at that school, good and bad. I can only wish you were here. And we got a new principle, I wish it could've been you. There's this new administrator they hired this year too. He's a black man, I haven't gotten a chance to talk to him yet but hopefully he touches the students lives in a similar way as you did. I truly miss you and I could never forget you. Love You with all my heart and see you when I get there Mrs. Alford! :)

Mrs. Alford, you may be imitated.......but NEVER duplicated. my prayers to Allistair and A.J.

Mrs.Alford was one of the most amazing people I ever met. She meant a lot to me...I don't know if she realizes how much. I had a rough time in High School but she was a real mentor to me. She is the sole reason I got into TV Production. She was my pass to class countless times because I always seemed to be running late. And even though it was embarrassing at the time, I am still flattered she came into my English class junior year to tell everyone what a 'genius' I was and that song she sang became a huge inside joke. I wish she could have seen me graduate and I wish she could have been there to help me through my tough senior year because I almost didn't make it. That sounds selfish but she was such an integral part of OPHS. It was strange not seeing her every day. From the first day I met her at that horrible parent-teacher conference, she always had an eye on me and she helped motivate me a lot.........she was just so generous and kind and a great shoulder to cry on. I still miss her and I know many others do too.

MRS. ALF0RD i KN0W Y0UR iNHEAVEN READiNG THiS AND AS i SiT HERE AND WRiTE THiS T0 Y0U iT STiLL HURTS. iTS N0T TiLL N0W THAT i C0ULD GET UP THE COURAGE TO SiT HERE AND WRitE THiS T0 Y0U. Y0U WERE THE M0ST iMP0RTANT THiNG iN 0RANGE PARK T0 ME. WHEN i G0T THE NEWS i WAS LIKE N0 THiS CANT BE TRUE. LIKE 0W SHE iS S0 STR0NG AND BEAUTiFUL, THERES N0 WAY WE ARE TALKiNG AB0UT THE SAME PERS0N. I MiSS Y0U M0RE AND M0RE AS THE DAYS G0 0N. Y0UR S0N WAS S0 STR0NG AT Y0UR VEiWiNG. Y0U KN0 THE SUMMER 0F MY FRESHMEN YEAR WHEN ALL THE TEACHERS CAME AR0UND T0 THE NEiGHB0RHOODS T0 TALK T0 THE STUDENTS AB0UT THE UP C0MiNG FCAT i WAS LIKE L0RD WH0 iS G0iNG T0 C0ME T0 MY H0USE? AND iT WAS Y0U AND EVER SiNCE THAT DAY i HAVE GAiNED M0RE RESPECT F0R Y0U. Y0U WERE THE REAS0N i DiDNT DR0P 0UT 0F SCH00L BECAUSE Y0U WEREL iKE GBRiTTANEY iF Y0U D0 i G0iNG T0 HURT Y0U. I DidNT F0R Y0U ANDi THiNK THE WH0LE CLASS 0F 2008 DiD iT F0R Y0U. WHEN STEPHANiE WAS D0iNG HER SPEECH AB0UT THE WH0LE CR0WD G0T QUiTE JUST T0 LiSTEN T0 WHAT SHE HAD T0 SAY AB0UT Y0U AND AS WE ALL SAT THiER CRYiNG AND SHE BEGAN T0 ALL WE C0ULD D0 WAS CHEER HR 0N AND i KN0 Y0U D0NT WANT US T0 CRY BUT WE TRULY MiSS Y0U. Y0U WERE LiKE MY M0THER. WHEN i HAD AN 0BSTACLEI C0ULD C0ME Y0U AND SURE EN0UGH Y0U WERE THiER T0 HELP ME THRU iT. IWILL NEVER F0RGET SUCH A BEAUTiFUL PERS0N i L0VE Y0U AND MAY Y0U RET IN PEACE. T0 MR. ALiSTER AND AJ BE STR0NG SHE iS iN A BETTER PLACE N0W.

To the family of the late Kim Barnwell Alford, I was so deeply saddened when I heard of her passing. Kim and I were good friends in high school and graduated together (class of 84'). I saw her picture on the obituary and It brought tears to my eyes, she still had that beautiful smile. I know this has to be hard, but take comfort in knowing she is now smiling with our Savior.

Ms. Barnwell was a great person and taught me many things in high school. She will be greatly missed.
CLASS OF 1992

MRS. ALFORD, IT TOOK ME ALONG TIME TO SIGN THIS GUEST BOOK. I AM STILL IN SHOCK. I'M HAVING SUCH A HARD TIME DEALING WITH YOUR DEATH. MRS. ALFORD, WHEN YOU FOUND OUT THAT I WAS PREGNANT, YOU DIDN'T THINK OF ME NO LESS. MRS. ALFORD YOU TOOK ME UNDER YOUR WINGS, YOU SAID TO ME BLOT YOUR GOING TO GRADUATE. THANKS FOR LEAVING YOUR DOOR OPEN TO GIVE ME ANY ADVICE THAT YOU HAD TO SHARE WITH ME AND MY MOTHER. MY MOTHER THOUGHT THE WORLD OF YOU, AND STILL DO. MY BABY BOY QUAYSHAUN IS NOW 18 MONTHS OLD. MRS. ALFORD I TOOK A BRAKE FROM FCCJ KENT AND NORTH CAMPUS, JUST FOR A WHILE, I PROMISE YOU THAT I WANT DISAPPOINT YOU. I REFUSE TO LET ANYONE STEAL OR DESTROY MY DREAMS, I KNOW YOU ALWAYS BELIEVED IN ME. MRS. ALFORD I'VE BEEN HITTING A FEW BUMPY ROADS IN THE PAST MONTHS. MY MOTHER GOT ON MY CASE. I HAVE DREAM OF BECOMING A PHARMACIST SINCE THE FIFTH GRADE. MY MOTHER DON'T MISS A BEAT. SHE FEELS I'M HANGING OUT WITH LOOSERS, I MUST SAY SHE'S RIGHT. MRS. ALFORD I LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH, THANKS FOR ALL THE LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING YOU HAD FOR ME. I AM GOING BACK TO SCHOOL. NOT ONLY FOR MYSELF, BUT FOR MY ADORABLE SON. I HAVE TO GET AND STAY ON THE RIGHT TRACK. I'M GETTING OLDER. I AM NOT GOING TO BE A FOLLOWER I'M GOING TO BE A LEADER. I KNOW I HAVE TO TAKE FULL CONTROL OF MY LIFE AGAIN, MY MOTHER, GRANDMOTHER AND ENTIRE FAMILY STOOD BEHIND ME WHEN I NEEDED THEM THE MOST. AND MRS. ALFORD YOU KNOW YOU WERE LIKE A SECOND MOTHER TO ME. MY MOTHER TOLD ME A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, THAT YOU WERE NOT PLEASED WITH THE CHANGES I'VE MADE IN MY LIFE. SHE SAID TO ME THAT YOU WERE TURNING OVER IN YOUR GRAVE. I REMEMBER YOU GAVE MY MOTHER A CALLED AT HOME TWO WEEKS BEFORE GRADUATION ON 05/04/2007. YOU TOLD MY MOTHER THAT WE NEED TO GET BLOT OUT OF FLORIDA, MY HUSBAND RETIRED FROM THE AIRFORCE, WE KNOW THE RECRUITER, I CAN TALK TO HIM, OR WE CAN SET UP SOMETHING SO SHE CAN MEET WITH THE RECRUITER. SHE HAS GREAT POTENTIALS. YOU DIDN'T WANT ME TO GET CAUGHT UP WITH THE WRONG CROWD. MRS. ALFORD I WAS IN SCHOOL FULL TIME AND WORKING FULL TIME. I JUST DECIDED TO STOP FOR WHAT, BECAUSE I CHOOSE TO HANG OUT WITH THE WRONG CROWD. MRS. ALFORD MAY YOU REST IN PEACE. I AM GOING TO BEAT THE SYSTEM, I AM GOING TO STAND PROUD AND GOING TO FULFILL AND ACCOMPLISH MY DREAMS. MR. ALFORD AND AJ, I WANT TO THANK YOU ALL FOR SHARING YOUR LOVELY WIFE, AND ADORABLE MOTHER WITH ME AND MY FAMILY, AND THE ENTIRE RAIDER FAMILY. LOVE ALWAYS AND FOREVER SERTRELL BLOT CLASS OF 2007.

THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH. i REALLY APPRECIATE AND RESPECT EACH OF YOU FOR THE ENTRIES. AJ AND I ARE MAKING OUR WAY THROUGH EACH DAY AND WITH YOU ALLS SUPPORT, PRAYERS, AND TIME ITSELF, THINGS WILL BEGIN TO GET A LITTLE EASIER FOR US. KIM WAS EXACTLY WHAT EVERYONE SAID AND I WAS SUCH A PRIVELEDGE HUSBAND TO HAVE KIM AS MY WIFE AND THE MOTHR OF MY CHILD.....SINCERELY

ALISTER AND AJ

To the Alford/Barnwell Families:

Kim was an awesome woman. I only heard of her passing a few days ago. She and I attended SCSU together and were also line sisters for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. during the spring of 2006 - The 32 Enchanted Dolls. There are many memories from the years she spent at SCSU and the way she embrassed life, learning and friendships. We lost touch over the years and I truly regret that but I will never forget Kim and that it was a blessing that the Lord allowed our paths to cross and intertwine. AJ and Alister please remember: "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord". All is well and God does not make mistakes.

Sorry for you lost.she will be greatly missed.

SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. I WAS VERY SHOCKED BY THIS NEWS THIS PAST WEEK BY MY COUSIN, WE WERE BOTH CHEERLEADERS AND MRS.KIM ALFORD WAS OUR ADVISORS AT BOWMAN HIGH SCHOOL. WE WERE VERY CLOSE AND SHE ALWAYS HAD GOOD THINGS TO SAY TO HER CHEERLEADERS. SHE WAS A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN INSIDE AND OUT AND SHE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ALL. MR. ALFORD PLEASE REMEMBER YOU HAD A BEAUTIFUL WIFE AND FRIEND. MAY GOD GUIDE AND KEEP YOU IN GOOD SPIRIT.

My deepest sympathy goes out to the Alford family during your time of bereavement.Mrs. Alford was an inspiration to many,and a beacon of hope to others.God's grace is sufficient enough to see you through this hard time.Trust in God with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding.In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.God bless you all.

To the family of (Ms. Barnwell) as I knew her from Bowman High School, you truly have my deepest sympathy in this lost of a great role model and inspiration to us all in Bowman, SC. She was my english instructor as well as my cheerleader advisors for a few years. The moments we spent together will be memories I shall cherish forever. She has been a great influence in many of our lives here in Bowman. When I found out this past weekend, I shared it with many friends. Only things I could hear were good things about her. So, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to meet such a wonderful person. Always remember Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can not heal.

Kimberly Barnwell Alford (AKA: Ms. Barnwell) was a true gem. The reason why I know this is or because of the fact that she was loved so very much by the senior class of Bowman High School, Class of '92'. She was our Senior Class Advisor.

My condolences goes out to all of the family members. May God keep you in his care.

Love Juanita Simmons Clark, Class of "92"

I just heard the news about Mrs Alford. I was very shocked by this news from this past weekend. I knew her as Ms Barnwell she taught me 9th grade English at Bowman High School in 1990. She had just graduated from SCSU. Kim was also in husband (Shiron)senior advisor.She was and inspiration to many young ladies at BHS. I know this is a diffcult time for the Alford family just know that, Kim was a positive role model and a beautiful person. She will be greatly missed and was missed after she left BHS. Remember you had a lovely wife and daring mother.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shiron and Darlethia Brown c/o 92& 93 BHS.

The world was a better place cause of Mrs Alford. She was a great mentor to me in high school... I don't think I would have loved yearbook as much if it wasn't for her :) My deepest sympathy goes out to all of her friends and family, especially Alister and AJ. You're in my prayers. -Nicole Richard - FWBHS! c/o 2000

God truly needed an angel. Kim, your spirit will be deeply missed.

Alister and A.J., I saw the sign at the high school, and had not heard the news. My 7 year old daughter read it also and said, "She must have died." Me, I wasn't ready to think that and said, "She probably just moved to another school." When I heard the news a couple of days ago, I was stunned. I met Mrs. Alford while I was a substitute teacher at OPHS. I have been reading all the posts and concur with all the wonderful things being said about Mrs. Alford. There aren't enough wonderful things to say about a woman like Mrs. Alford. She blessed me and so many others. The air around her literally sang with the positive, loving energy of her spirit, and it is that spirit that never dies. I know that she is with you still and always will be. A.J., I don't know if you remember, but my daughter Brooklyn and I sat with you and your mom at one of the Raider's games. Your mom talked about you and your dad all the time with such love, and she was so proud of you. I know that it is hard to be without her physical presence now and although it may not seem possible now, know that time and the love and support of those around you will help you to heal. My heart goes out to you and you will be in my prayers for a long time to come. Know that the gift of herself which she so generousley and joyfully shared with everyone around her will live on in our hearts and memories forever, as in your own. May you both have peace. God bless you.

ms alford was an awesome teacher. i had her for english. she was always excited and a positive person. i pray for strength for her family, friends, coworkers and students as they (and i) go through this loss. it's been almost 10 years since i saw ms alford last, but she's one of those teachers you never forget. she was nice, but tough and wouldnt let you get away w/ anything in her class. she will truly be missed!!

Mrs. Alford made a difference to all students at OPHS. Her voice could be heard clear across campus. She was such a caring, friendly woman and an inspirational educator. She made an impact on my family and so many other families of students at OPHS. She will be missed greatly, but I know she is in a good place. OPHS will never forget you.

Mrs. Alford I will always have the fondest memories of you. It was never the same day twice working with you. I enjoyed the experienced of watching you reach out to every one and making time for them with your endless energy. I'll miss our talks, our pranks and just seeing you. You have touched many lives and seeing the happiness in your eyes when a student would come back to visit and say "Thank you" or "if it wasn't for you...." you wore your smile proudly and rightfully so. OPHS has lost a loving friend, teacher, mentor and a simple woman who made time and gave her love to all.

To Al and AJ, You will forever be in my prayers. Al, you have been a true friend to me over these few years I have known you. You did a great job with Kim. Kim was an inspiration to my family and me. The world is a better place because Kim touch so many lives. Kim gaves this world her best. A Great Piano Player gave the concert of his life. When he had finish playing. The crowd jump up to their feet. They was yelling bravo some even ask for an encore. He look out in the crowd and saw one man sitting down. Disappointed, he walked off the stage. His manager came running to him and said, "Can you hear the cheers, they are for you, you have to go back out there. The Piano Player said "I can not." His manager said, "I do not understand. The Piano Player said, "You are right you do not understand, did you see that man sitting on the front row, well he was my teacher. I impress the crowd but I did not impress my teacher because he knew I did not play my best. The Bible said when they stoned Steven he look up in Heaven and saw Jesus standing on the right hand of God. See I believe when Kim went home on Christmas Day. Jesus stood up because on this side of Heaven, she gave us her BEST.
Shalom

I will always cherish the memories of Kim's anazing energy and beautiful personality. She was an inspiration to us and I know she will be missed terribly.

Kim was my very first Secret Santa and she tried so hard to find me a blue unicorn which I cherish to this day. May the majic of your memories heal your broken heart.

Our prayers are lifting your family up in this time. Al and AJ, Kim was a very special lady. She touched my heart each time I talked to her. With God's help your family will make it though this time. We will never forget her.
George and Kathy Chaney

To the Alfords,

No can begin to know how you all really feel, AL AND AJ you all have our deepest sympathy. Kim played a vital role in our lives whether it was helping with my child or giving me guidance for a career path or simply being there when my Father transitioned or when my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer I can go on, on. But that was Kim trying to be there for everyone with her fiesty self. Kim was a go-getter and hard charger, and we really appreciated her. As of right now not a day goes by that I don't think of her, I just knew she was coming home, but God had other plans, for she is relieved of pain and suffering and God has truly gotten himself a hard working Angel. She will be truly missed. AL we are here for you don't hesitate, your friends and neighbors. Troy and Gail Morgan

Alsiter,
My heart heart goes out to you and your family during this very difficult time. I will draw upon those seeds of faith that were planted in us both long ago at Spears United Methodist Chruch in Bennettsville SC, to lift you up in prayer My Brother .

I just heard through a friend today that Kim had passed away. It has been a very long time since we have seen each other and we didn't know each other very well, but she really left a lasting impression on me. We met through AJ at the baseball park. AJ and my son Peter used to play baseball together. I'm very sorry to hear that such a wonderful, kind hearted, full of life person had to leave this earth so soon. May her memory be eternal. May God give her family the strength to continue on and live their lives the way that Kim would have wanted them to. God rest her soul.

Alister and AJ – We met Kim when AJ was playing T-Ball with our son Fisher at MSA. We are so saddened to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers and my God bless you and your family during this most difficult time.

Ms. Alford I am truly going to miss you...I remember when you found out in my senior year that I was pregnant...You were disappointed but you never judged me...You did tell me though that there was no way I wasn't going to finish school...My heart and mind are full with all the encouraging words you gave me about being a young mother...I will never forget them... I will also never forget you saying you don't have to dress provacatively to be seen...Another lesson I hold dear...You will forever be missed and never forgotten....Oh my son is two now and he's growing like a weed...

Dear Alford Family,
You and Kim have been in my prayers so often since I heard of her illness a few months ago. I had the great privilege of working with Kim at OPHS for a few years when she first came to Orange Park, and I loved every minute of it. Her smile, laughter, and voice are unforgettable. She shared in my pregnancy and birth of my first son (now 7)and enjoyed recounting her own experiences as a new mom with me. My two year old even wears some of the clothes Kim passed down to me from AJ. She loved you all so much. I know your pain is great, but I pray that God's peace would be lavished upon you. All the promises of faith Kim clung to on earth have been made sight to her now! By faith in Christ, we will be with her again one day, too. You remain in my prayers.

Kim will be truly missed personally and professionally by us. She had such a positive influence on your life when you encountered her. A smile would always be the result. We smile now knowing that she is at peace and with her Savior. Our prayers and thoughts are with her family and friends. We will deeply miss her.

MRS.ALFORD
EVEN THOUGH ME AND YOU HAVENT TALKED MUCH THROUGH OUT LAST YEAR I WILL MISS SEEING YOU AND HEARING YOUR VOICE IN THE HALL WAYS OF OPHS. THESE HALLS ARE GOING BE QUIT WITH OUT YOU. YOU WERE SUCH A LOVING PERSON AND YOU KNEW A STUDENTS NAME FOREVER ONCE THEY TOLD YOU. I WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH. MY PRAYER'S GO OUT TO YOUR FAMILY.

LOVE
STUDENT FROM OPHS C/OF 10
SUSIE M. JACOBS

Bro Al,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mark & Maxine Reed
Eglin AFB

Our sincere thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Kim Alford. Mrs. Alford was a class act - and was a positive roll model on the students at OPHS. She touched many lives and her positive influences will live on through all that were fortunate enough to have known her. God bless you.
Ashley & Linda Lake

To the Alford Family,
Kim ... a beautiful treasure, has been returned to our Heavenly Father, who shared her with us for a too brief period of time. We give God thanks for the positive influence she had in our family through her teaching and counseling of our children and our many hours of conversations. She will be truly missed. We will continue to be prayerful that the Peace which passed all human understanding will keep you all, ALWAYS.

Mrs. Alford,
Even though I never had you as a teacher I remember your booming voice through the halls and you kind spirit. You were a loved and respected woman, and will forever be missed by all who knew you. Your family is in my thoughts.

Dear Alford Family: Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy is with you. We loved Mrs. Alford and we will truely miss her.

We will miss you.
Rest in peace.
Erma Simmons,Michael Simmons,Michael Simmons II

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time. The Staff at Consualte Healthcare of Jacksonville

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

May God comfort the family during these difficult times.

Dear Alford Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Words simply cannot express the loss of such a great mother, teacher, friend, and neighbor. She always inspired people through her work or just with her beautiful smile, and she will be missed.
Sincerely,
Mike, Mary, Ashley, and Alex Krieger

Dear Al and AJ,

We are so sorry to hear about Kim. She was a wonderful person, always smiling and a terrific neighbor. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Marty, Karen and Megan Lacey

MRS. ALFORD, I'M HAVING SUCH A DIFFICULT TIME DEALING WITH YOUR DEATH, I'M AT WORK ON NEW YEARS NIGHT. ITS 2008, I JUST CAN'T BELIEVE I WANT SEE YOU AROUND. I ASK GOD TO GIVE ME STRENGTH. AFTER SEEING YOUR HUSBAND AND SON AT YOUR HOMEGOING SERVICE SATURDAY, I KNOW THEIRS A GOD. THE BOTH OF THEM HAD LOTS OF STRENGTH. MRS. ALFORD I HAVE SERTRELL'S BROTHER LEFT AT ORANGE PARK HE'S WITH CLASS OF 2009, I WANT SERGE BLOT AKA CORDELL TO MAINTAIN THE RESPECT THAT HE HAVE FOR HIMSELF AND OTHERS. I'M JUST REALLY MISSING YOU MRS. ALFORD, ITS JUST ONE BIG EMPTY HOLE IN THE WALL OF OPHS. I JUST WANT THE KIDS TO HANG ON IN THERE, LIKE AS IF YOU'RE STILL AROUND. MRS. ALFORD I LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH. I JUST KEEP TELLING MYSELF YOU'RE ON A TRIP. LOVE MS. BLOT, SERTRELL, CORDELL, SHIMELL, LIL QUAYSHAUN, AND GRANDMA. HAPPY NEW YEAR MRS. ALFORD, AND MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND CLOSE FRIENDS. HAPPY NEW YEARS MR. ALFORD AND LIL AJ.

To The Alford Family,

Our deepest sympathy is with you and your family. May God Bless you! Kimberly was such an awesome to person to have as your friend! She was special to me because she was always there for me as she was all of her students & friends! She will be greatly missed and we are saddened that she is no longer here with us but she will always be in our hearts! My heart broke Christmas morning when I was told that she had passed away! It was something that I just couldn't believe would happen to such a special person! We all miss Kim dearly but we know that she is in heaven where she is not in pain anymore! Kim was one of Clay County's FINEST teachers and principals & she will live on through our hearts forever! I thank god that I got the chance to know Kimberly Alford! May god bless you Al & AJ! No one can ever replace Kim, she was one of a kind & we miss her so much! Kim was the most energetic & sweetest person I have ever known! Our loss is heavens gain! God bless The Alford Family!

Hey Al we just found out Bro, we will keep you and littleman in our prayers here in the Eglin community. God Bless
The Tillman Family

We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of our beloved Kim. We became friends in high school and shared many special times together that I will cherish forever. Alister and AJ, we will continue to keep you in our prayers and always trust God and lean not to your own understanding. May God continue to comfort you during this difficult time.

We share your sorrow and loss of our beloved Kim. Remember, God will never leave your nor forsake you and he will sustain you in this most difficult time. May all the loving memories help to ease the sorrow that you feel. We will continue to keep you and AJ in our prayers.