Robert Dale "Bob" Alford

Robert "Bob" Dale Alford, 79, died peacefully at his residence surrounded by family. He was born on August 19, 1946, in Dyersburg, Tennessee at the Old Braid-Brewer Hospital.

Officiating the memorial will be Brother Jack Chapman, Randy Stephens, and graveside services Rev. Roger Lynn Alford. A Celebration of Life Service for Mr. Alford will be held at 12:30 PM on Saturday, September 20, 2025, in the Chapel of Johnson-Williams Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 11:30 AM until 12:30 PM at Johnson-Williams Funeral Home.

In his career, Bob was a Tool and Die Machinist for 42 years, retiring from Bennett's Tool and Die of Dyersburg, TN.

Bob had a deep love for family and friends which he cherished greatly. He found joy in the simple, meaningful moments shared with those around him. His smile lit up every room. He especially loved fishing with his grandchildren or enjoying a game of bowling, in which he won many trophies. Bob was a talented woodworker and an avid collector of coins and knives.

He leaves to cherish his memory his fiancée, Virginia Robbins; his children, Steve Richardson (Pam) of Newbern, TN; DeeAnna Crist (Russ) of Schererville, Indiana; Rhonda Stephens (Randy) of Dyersburg, TN; Mark Breece (Vicky) of Dyersburg, TN; James Bobo of Dyersburg, TN; Marion Pingel (Matt) of Lawrence, MI; and Carla Wright (Tommy) of Newbern, TN.

Bob was known as "Papa" to 19 grandchildren: Shane Blalock (Jamie), April Richardson (Brooke), Laura Hickmott, Samuel Stephens (Hannah), Johnnie Mack Stephens, Jacquelyn Breece, Allison Coomer (Taylor), Kyle Breece, Brandy Langston (Scott), Amber Bobo, Justin Bobo, Destiney Bobo, Heath Pingel (Ashley), Elizabeth Kindig (Shawn), Brittany Frank (Robert), and James Robert.

He was also blessed with thirty-one great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Bob was "Bubber" to his sisters, Doris McCutcheon of Searcy, AR; Sandra Young (Randy) of Olive Branch, MS; and Kathy Parette of Milton, FL, and a brother-in-law Millard "Allen" Stafford. He also leaves behind a slew of nieces and nephews, and even a love for the neighborhood dog, Lucky.

He was a proud member of Spirit of Truth Church in Dyersburg, TN, where he recently rededicated his life to Christ, which brought him great peace. His favorite scripture, "I am with you always" (Matthew 28:20)

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 34 years, Audrey Lee Alford; his parents, Stoy and Lillian-Covington Alford; his son, John Breece; grandson, Dale Bobo; sister, Pamela Stafford; brother-in-law, Junior McCutcheon; cousin, Marshall Myers; and special uncle, Sloan Covington.

Papa lived a life filled with love, laughter, and generosity. He was the toughest man we knew. Papa will be remembered for his selflessness, his joking personality, and the way he went above and beyond for everyone around him. He was active in so many lives and never missed a beat. He will be deeply missed by all who know him.

Honorary Pallbearers: James Robert, Tommy Wright, Robert Frank, Caden McChristan, Randy Young, Michael McChristan, Scott Langston, Adam Hickmott, Jim Lumley, Kevin Klutts, Phillip Dorse, and Mike Montgomery.

Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Robert "Bob" Dale Alford. Online condolences may be made to the family at johnson-williamsfuneralhome.com