Arvid Lee Wakefield

After a most courageous and valiant fight with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and while surrounded by his family, Arvid went to claim victory in his Lord Jesus Christ and began his eternal journey on April 11, 2014. He was born on May 4, 1967, in Lincoln Park, Michigan, was raised in Danville, and then established his home with his wife and children in Decatur. Arvid is survived by his wife, Dawn Hinson Wakefield; their children Hunter Kyle Wimberley and wife Anna, Jordan Alyse Wimberley and Grayson Mitchell Wakefield; his parents, George and Faye Wakefield; his siblings, Mark Wakefield (Debbie), Luther Wakefield (Karen) and Rhonda Barton (Randy); and numerous other family members and friends. Throughout Arvid's life, and even while battling ALS up until his difficult last days, he could often be found at Epic, welcoming, encouraging, and serving others. He demonstrated what it means to be a true follower of Christ, and not just a fan, by his love and sacrificial service in action. Through his faith and passion for God, he developed countless friendships and changed lives in a way that will only be fully known when we join him in heaven. This passion and commitment to being a follower also shined bright in his love to play and coach sports and for Alabama football. In his special way, he always found an opportunity to slip a Roll Tide into the conversation and bring a smile to someone's face. His family and friends will endure times of mourning, but just as Arvid would want, they will honor him and "journey on". They will rejoice in knowing Arvid is soaring on wings like eagles; running and not growing weary, and walking and not being faint (Isa 40:2831). A celebration of life service will be held this Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at 6 p.m. at The Princess Theatre.In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored for donations to Decatur Heritage Christian Academy for "The Arvid Wakefield Scholarship Fund" at PO Box 5659, Decatur, AL 35601 or to help keep Arvid's dream alive of loving and reaching people by donating to Epic Church